American football quarterback who became the last pick in the 2022 NFL Draft before leading the San Francisco 49ers to the Super Bowl as a rookie.
Born in Queen Creek, Arizona, on December 27, 1999, Brock Purdy developed his football skills at Perry High School before committing to Iowa State University. At Iowa State, he became the Cyclones' starting quarterback and established himself as one of the program's most accomplished players, leading the team to multiple bowl games and earning recognition for his leadership and accuracy. Selected as the final pick of the 2022 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers, Purdy earned the traditional "Mr. Irrelevant" title given to the draft's last selection. Initially expected to serve as a developmental third-string quarterback, his career trajectory changed dramatically when injuries to Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo thrust him into action during his rookie season. Purdy made his first NFL start in December 2022 and immediately demonstrated remarkable composure and efficiency within Kyle Shanahan's offensive system. Purdy's rookie campaign produced several notable achievements, including becoming the first rookie quarterback to win his first seven starts since Ben Roethlisberger in 2004. His precision passing and quick decision-making helped guide the 49ers to the NFC Championship Game, making him the youngest quarterback to win a playoff game. Despite suffering an elbow injury in the conference championship, his rookie season established him as a legitimate NFL starter and one of the most accurate passers in the league. The quarterback's rapid ascent from draft afterthought to franchise cornerstone represents one of the NFL's most remarkable success stories. His ability to maximize the 49ers' offensive weapons while maintaining exceptional accuracy and minimizing turnovers has redefined expectations for late-round quarterback selections. Purdy's emergence has also validated the importance of system fit and coaching in quarterback development, demonstrating that talent evaluation extends far beyond draft position. His story continues to inspire undrafted and late-round prospects throughout professional football.
Being 'Mr. Irrelevant' (last pick in NFL Draft) who became a starting quarterback and led team to NFC Championship
How They Played
Accurate passer with excellent decision-making, pocket awareness, and ability to work within offensive system
Lasting Impact
Transformed from Mr. Irrelevant to franchise quarterback, proving that draft position doesn't determine NFL success
Career Honours
- Pro Bowl 2x
- NFC Championship 2023
- Super Bowl LVIII (runner-up)
- San Francisco 49ers franchise QB (active)
- Pro Bowl 2024
- Pro Bowl 2023
| Team | Period | Games | Jersey |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco 49ers | 2022–2024 | 49 | #13 |
| Iowa State Cyclones | 2018–2021 | 46 | — |