The San Francisco 49ers are navigating a challenging season, and one of the biggest storylines revolves around the contract situation of quarterback Brock Purdy. NFL insider Ian Rapoport recently shared a surprising update on the contract negotiations between Purdy and the team, sparking widespread discussion among fans and analysts. Below is a detailed analysis of the situation based on the latest information.
Background on Brock Purdy’s Contract
Brock Purdy, selected as the final pick (No. 262) in the 2022 NFL Draft, has quickly established himself as one of the league’s most promising quarterbacks. With an average annual salary of just $1.1 million under his rookie contract, Purdy has delivered far beyond expectations, leading the 49ers to a 23-13 regular-season record and a 4-2 playoff record over his first three years. He has guided the team to two NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl appearance, showcasing remarkable leadership and consistency for a young player.
However, the 2024 season has been turbulent for the 49ers, who posted a 6-11 record and dealt with numerous injuries. Purdy himself faced struggles, recording 2,707 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions before Week 14, along with lackluster performances following a shoulder injury. These challenges have raised some doubts about whether Purdy warrants a massive contract, but the 49ers remain committed to him as their quarterback of the future.
Ian Rapoport’s Update
During a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on May 5, 2025, Ian Rapoport provided the latest insights into the contract talks between Purdy and the 49ers. He emphasized that while negotiations are progressing positively, a finalized deal is unlikely in the near term. “I don’t get the sense that it’s going to get done soon, but at least it feels like things are headed in the right direction,” Rapoport stated.
Rapoport noted that quarterback contracts typically take longer to negotiate compared to other positions, such as tight end George Kittle (who recently signed a 4-year, $76.4 million extension) or linebacker Fred Warner. He predicted that Purdy’s average annual value (AAV) would likely fall in the $50-55 million range, below the $60 million benchmark set by Dak Prescott, currently the NFL’s highest-paid quarterback. This aligns with earlier reports suggesting the 49ers offered an initial $45 million per year, which fell short of Purdy’s camp’s expectations.
Rapoport also highlighted key dates to watch, including voluntary Organized Team Activities (OTAs) starting May 27 and mandatory minicamp on June 10. If a deal isn’t reached before training camp begins in late July, Purdy could opt for a “hold-in” strategy—attending camp but refraining from on-field activities to pressure the team.
Reactions from the 49ers and Fans
49ers general manager John Lynch has repeatedly affirmed the team’s commitment to securing Purdy long-term. In a recent interview on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast, Lynch expressed optimism about the negotiations without divulging new details. Purdy’s participation in voluntary offseason workouts is a positive sign, indicating a strong relationship with the team, unlike the tense negotiations previously seen with stars like Nick Bosa or Brandon Aiyuk.
On X, 49ers fans have voiced mixed opinions. Some support paying Purdy a premium, with user @49ersSportsTalk suggesting Purdy’s side is aiming for close to $60 million annually, while the 49ers prefer a range of $50-55 million. Another post from @SFSportsAndTech speculated that issues related to injury guarantees and escape clauses could be delaying progress, especially given Purdy’s injury history.
However, some argue the 49ers hold leverage. @49ersSportsTalk posited that the team could offer Purdy a 3-year, $135 million deal ($45 million AAV) or require him to play out the final year of his rookie contract at $5.3 million, followed by franchise tags in 2026 ($41 million) and 2027 ($51 million). This strategy suggests the 49ers have negotiating power but risks straining relations with Purdy.
Financial and Strategic Implications for the 49ers
Purdy’s new contract will mark the end of the 49ers’ ability to leverage a cost-effective quarterback, allowing them to spend heavily on other positions. With an expected salary of at least $50 million per year, the 49ers will need to make significant cap adjustments. This has already prompted moves like trading Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders for a fifth-round pick and considering a trade of Brandon Aiyuk to rejuvenate the roster and free up cap space.
Rapoport emphasized that the 49ers are shifting toward building a younger roster, with decisions like releasing veterans such as Javon Hargrave and exploring options like signing Joey Bosa to reunite him with his brother, Nick Bosa. These moves indicate the team is preparing for a tighter financial future as Purdy becomes one of the NFL’s highest-paid players.
Predictions and Conclusion
While Rapoport doesn’t anticipate Purdy’s contract being finalized imminently, the positive trajectory of negotiations is encouraging for 49ers fans. With an impressive track record and an indispensable role in head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offensive system, Purdy is almost certain to secure a substantial deal, likely placing him among the NFL’s top 10 highest-paid quarterbacks. However, the exact salary and additional terms (such as injury protections) will determine how quickly an agreement is reached.
Key moments like mandatory minicamp and training camp will be critical to monitor. If the 49ers and Purdy fail to finalize a deal before the 2025 season, the situation could grow more complex, particularly as Purdy enters the final year of his rookie contract. Nevertheless, with mutual commitment from both sides, Purdy is likely to remain the cornerstone of the 49ers for years to come.