Veteran Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck Defends Brock Purdy Against Critics
Matt Hasselbeck has joined the chorus of voices praising Brock Purdy, asserting his legitimacy and talent as a quarterback.
Hasselbeck, a seasoned quarterback and analyst, is dismissing the negativity aimed at Purdy.
It may take time before most analysts and pundits give full recognition to San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy.
Despite setting numerous records in his first full year as a starter in 2023, and leading the league in key categories such as passer rating (113.0) and yards per attempt (9.6), Purdy, the final pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, still faces skepticism, with critics suggesting he is merely benefiting from his team.
Certainly, having an All-Pro supporting cast and a quarterback-friendly offense under head coach Kyle Shanahan helps.
Even though Purdy was a finalist for NFL MVP last season, this shouldn’t undermine the argument that he has risen to the top tier of quarterbacks.
Hasselbeck, a former quarterback, isn’t buying into the criticism against Purdy.
Hasselbeck Calls Criticism of Purdy ‘B.S.’
Speaking at the annual Tight End University with NBC Sports Bay Area’s Jennifer Lee Chan, Hasselbeck, who had a 17-year career and was a three-time Pro Bowler, defended Purdy against ongoing criticism.
Hasselbeck stated:
“Brock Purdy is a baller. People say, ‘Oh he doesn’t have ‘wow’ throws.’ B.S. Turn the tape on. That guy has ‘wow’ throws. He’s a great quarterback. I know he might not win a combine competition or whatever, but he would win a quarterback competition in my mind. I think he’s a great player.”
The former Seattle Seahawks quarterback and ESPN analyst noted that while Purdy’s impressive stats are partly due to his talented team, his quick decision-making sets him apart.
Hasselbeck added:
“I think a lot of it is decision-making in a split second. It’s also making the throw at the moment of truth. …
[Purdy] seized the opportunity, took advantage of it, and he made those big-time throws in a split second when they needed them to be made. A lot of guys out there are like, ‘Oh, I could have done that.’ Yeah, but you didn’t when the opportunity arose. He took advantage of it, and I don’t think they’ll ever look back.”
Purdy is likely to continue facing criticism despite support from figures like Hasselbeck.
Perhaps some can’t get past Purdy’s seventh-round draft status, or they believe any competent quarterback could thrive in his situation, despite many other 49ers quarterbacks failing under similar circumstances.
Nonetheless, Hasselbeck rejects the criticism against Purdy.
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