Ex-NFL linebacker questions wisdom over throwing $60,000,000 a year at Brock Purdy
Former NFL linebacker Emannuel Acho isn't convinced about San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy potentially earning over $60 million a year.
Purdy's rise from Mr. Irrelevant to a starting quarterback for one of the biggest franchises in the NFL is impressive. There are 32 starting jobs in the NFL, but even those aren't guaranteed. Just ask Bryce Young, the former No. 1 overall pick who was benched for a while this year in favor of Andy Dalton, before eventually recovering his spot under center.
With Purdy leading the Niners to a Super Bowl appearance, the question of his contract will take center stage this summer. Barnwell believes Purdy's next deal will see him take home somewhere north of $60 million a year. However, former NFL linebacker turned analyst Acho isn't sold on that number.
After a TNF loss to the Rams pushed the Niners out of playoff contention, Acho said on Steiny and Guru on 95.7 The Game.
"If you're watching Brock Purdy play yesterday and on the other side of the field you're watching Matthew Stafford, are you saying 'I'm paying Brock Purdy $55-$60 million?
"At the point in which you're watching the physical limitations, do you feel comfortable going to war knowing other teams are bringing Matthew Staffords and Josh Allens to war? That's the question."
Proposed Brock Purdy contract would place 49ers QB among NFL's highest-paid players
Barnwell's proposed deal would see the Niners fork out $325 million over a period of five years for long-term security at the QB position. The deal would mean Purdy's salary would rise to $65 million a year.
As things stand, Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott is the NFL's highest-paid QB after the franchise gave him $60 million a year ($240 million overall). Prescott is followed by Joe Burrow, Trevor Lawrence and Jordan Love (all tied at $55 million a year). Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa is the league's fifth-highest-paid QB at $53,100,000 a year.
The going rate for a top-tier starting quarterback has risen since Prescott's deal, but a new contract for Purdy will also force the Niners into cap management mode. That could lead to names like Javon Hargrave and Deebo Samuel walking out the door.