49ers Facing Tough Decision on Brock Purdy’s Contract Extension
With the NFL’s offseason roster limit set at 90 players, the San Francisco 49ers still have 15 spots open, signaling their intent to be active in free agency. However, a bigger storyline looms over the franchise—Brock Purdy’s contract extension. While the team continues to build its roster, the young quarterback’s next deal remains unresolved, and a shocking update from an NFL insider has tied his potential salary to that of Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.
Could Purdy Land a Prescott-Level Contract?
From The Insiders on @nflnetwork: Based on recent QB contract extensions in relation to the salary cap, Brock Purdy has a strong case to make for a deal that comes close to Dak Prescott’s $60 million per year. pic.twitter.com/7T2wfz21kf
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 21, 2025
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo recently stated that based on recent quarterback contracts and their relation to the salary cap, Purdy could make a strong case for a deal approaching Prescott’s massive $60 million per year extension. Garafolo explained that while Purdy might not command an identical figure, the 49ers will likely have to offer a number close enough for both sides to find it fair while maintaining financial flexibility for the team.
Why is this surprising? Purdy, who was the last pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, is currently playing on a four-year, $3.7 million rookie contract. That means his annual salary is just $934,252—a fraction of what elite quarterbacks earn. Given his performance, including a 2023 season where he led in average passing yards and guided the team to the Super Bowl, Purdy has significantly outplayed his contract.
For comparison, Prescott signed a four-year, $240 million contract in 2024, earning $60 million annually with a cap hit exceeding $52 million. While Dallas has committed heavily to their QB, some argue the move has hampered the team’s ability to build a balanced roster. That’s exactly what some 49ers fans fear if the team hands Purdy a similar deal.
Is Purdy Worth a Mega-Contract?
The debate centers around two key concerns:
1. Injury History – Purdy has already dealt with multiple injuries, including an elbow issue in Week 17 of the 2024 season and a previous shoulder injury. His injury risk for 2025 is estimated at over 25%, raising questions about long-term durability.
2. Team Building Strategy – If the 49ers give Purdy a massive deal, will it restrict their ability to retain key talent? The Cowboys have faced similar challenges after locking up Prescott, and some analysts argue San Francisco should avoid the same mistake.
The Matthew Stafford-Like Blueprint
Despite contract concerns, the 49ers appear committed to Purdy leading their offense. Some experts have compared this situation to how the Los Angeles Rams structured their team around Matthew Stafford. In 2022, the Rams made major roster changes, prioritizing offensive weapons like Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua while allowing their defense to gradually improve. This strategy helped them secure playoff berths in 2023 and 2024.
A similar approach may be taking shape in San Francisco. Kyle Juszczyk has re-signed, keeping continuity alongside Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle. This suggests the 49ers plan to invest heavily in their offense, with Purdy as the focal point.
What Happens Next?
Experts suggest Purdy shouldn’t rush into an extension, as his value may continue to rise. The 49ers, meanwhile, aren’t in a hurry to finalize a deal, possibly waiting for the quarterback market to settle. The big question remains: Will Purdy get a deal near Prescott’s $60 million, or will the 49ers take a more conservative approach?
San Francisco must weigh the risks and rewards carefully—securing their franchise QB while maintaining roster flexibility.