Chiefs’ Reid responds to recent criticism of Purdy’s skill set originally on NBC Sports Bay Area
In contrast to many NFL players, Brock Purdy, who is headed to Super Bowl LVIII, has endured criticism while having his best season to date.
At the national level, the anti-Purdy movement is especially strong, with prominent experts questioning the 49ers quarterback’s skill set and endorsing the term “game manager,” which has been used to the 2022 Mr. Irrelevant during the entire season.
But one more Purdy hater cannot be added to the ranks of Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid.
As the Chiefs get ready to play the 49ers in the Super Bowl, Reid fielded questions from reporters during Opening Night on Monday in Las Vegas about the criticism Purdy has received, particularly from the national press.
The 49ers quarterback, whom the Chiefs coach’s club will play on February 11 at Allegiant Stadium, was met with unshakable respect and admiration from the coach.
Reid stated, “I think [Purdy’s] doing a good job of getting [national respect].” He’s right. He is intelligent. “Well, he’s short and can’t run,” is the common response, yet last week’s [NFC Championship] Game was essentially won by him running and throwing the ball. But in that game, his legs were an advantage.
Despite the prevailing national narrative, Purdy has proven to have a varied toolkit that is reliable, particularly when significant consequences are at stake.
Before the NFC Championship Game, there were a lot of worries about Purdy’s ability to play against a dangerous Detroit Lions blitz threat and hold his own in the pocket.
In response, he completed 64.5 percent of his throws for 267 yards and a score while under pressure on 15 of his 36 dropbacks during the thrilling victory.
Reid noticed, being the prepared coach that he is.
Reid said, “And then he did it under pressure.” “So, for quarterbacks, all those important categories that you kind of tick off? He’s showcasing and demonstrating to everyone that he possesses all of that.
Now, that’s probably a different conversation with a different response as to whether Reid and Co. will want to deal with the Purdy version that was described.
On Sunday, the 49ers’ pursuit of the Vince Lombardi Trophy is scheduled to begin at 3:30 p.m. PT.
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