New NFC West rival studying 49ers' Brock Purdy in transition to NFL

The Seattle Seahawks are preparing for a new era under center, signing veteran quarterback Sam Darnold to replace former starter Geno Smith and selecting Jalen Milroe in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft. As Milroe begins his transition to the professional level, he'll be working closely with new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak.

Kubiak, who served as the San Francisco 49ers' passing game coordinator in 2023, played a key role in quarterback Brock Purdy's breakout season, helping him throw for a franchise-record 4,280 passing yards.

Milroe recently told FOX Sports that he has been studying Purdy's film as he acclimates to Seattle's system, one that now shares some similarities with the one in which Purdy thrives.

"What's unique about Brock is he played in the same system that I'm in right now," Milroe said. "So, it's been great to see the tape and see some of our reads and play calls and watching him play."

A Texas native, Milroe grew up admiring quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady. But after closely analyzing Purdy's 2023 tape, the rookie has developed a growing respect for his new NFC West rival.

"He understands his feet are tied into the read and pocket integrity," Milroe said of Purdy. "When he plays on time, that's when he's at his best and he's been most efficient. That's what I've been able to capture as I've studied his game."

Milroe won't have to wait long to see Purdy in action up close. The Seahawks will host the 49ers in Week 1 at Lumen Field on September 7. The two teams won't meet again until the regular-season finale in January, potentially with playoff implications on the line.