Rival execs skeptical of 49ers' post-Purdy contract strategy

The Athletic's NFL insider, Jeff Howe, spoke with dozens of league sources during training camps, gathering insights on all 32 teams. When it came to the San Francisco 49ers, much of the discussion centered on quarterback Brock Purdy, who signed a five-year, $265 million extension this offseason—making him the highest-paid player in franchise history.

Acknowledging the long-term impact of Purdy's new deal, the 49ers were forced to adjust their roster-building strategy. Several veteran contributors were let go, and the team pivoted toward younger, more affordable players, hoping the overall drop-off in talent wouldn't be too steep.

Still, rival executives question whether San Francisco can continue surrounding Purdy with enough elite talent while devoting so much money to one position.

"Rival executives sound skeptical of the 49ers' ability to continue surrounding Brock Purdy with elite talent after they paid their QB this offseason," Howe wrote. "The Niners already felt the squeeze over the offseason by trading Deebo Samuel, though that was forecast a year ago when they paid fellow receiver Brandon Aiyuk. But the strength of the roster was built on high-end contracts, and their depth has been exposed when Niners stars have gone down with injuries."

Purdy wasn't the only foundational piece to secure a new deal this offseason. Tight end George Kittle and linebacker Fred Warner both reestablished themselves as the highest-paid players at their respective positions with extensions.

Meanwhile, wide receiver Jauan Jennings is seeking a new deal. However, with Aiyuk commanding a hefty contract, the 49ers appear hesitant to commit more big money to the receiver group—even with Aiyuk unavailable for the start of the season as he works his way back from ACL and MCL injuries.

"Purdy's contract is fine in the immediate future, especially if he continues to play well, but the margin for error will begin to shrink in 2028, when his cap hit explodes to $57.6 million," Howe added.

On a more optimistic note, Howe reported that coaches and executives are intrigued by the return of Robert Saleh as defensive coordinator, viewing it as potentially the team's best offseason move. Whether that addition is enough to help the 49ers rebound from their disappointing 2024 season, however, remains to be seen.

H/t Joaquin Ruiz of NBC Sports Bay Area for the find.