San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy is drawing comparisons to Philadelphia Eagles star Jalen Hurts not just for his on-field prowess but also for his potential future contract extension. Sports journalist Tim Kawakami of The Athletic believes that Purdy’s eventual deal could resemble the five-year, $255 million extension Hurts signed in April 2023.
Jalen Hurts’ Template for Brock Purdy
Kawakami outlined the structure of Hurts’ contract, highlighting the guaranteed $179.3 million over four years with a back-loaded salary structure. “In real terms, Hurts got $179.3M guaranteed over four years, an average of $44.8M. That’s the number I’d circle for Purdy and the 49ers when the negotiations start next year,” Kawakami stated.
Though Purdy isn’t eligible for an extension until after the 2024 season, the comparison with Hurts goes beyond financials. Both quarterbacks guided their respective teams to Super Bowl appearances, and while neither clinched the title, they showcased their ability to lead championship-contending franchises.
Managing Future Cap Hits
One concern that has emerged is the potential impact of paying Purdy a significant contract on the 49ers’ ability to retain other star players. However, Kawakami pointed out how the Eagles managed Hurts’ early cap hits with a creative approach to the collective bargaining agreement, keeping his cap hit to just $6.1 million in 2023 and $13.6 million in 2024.
Having Jalen Hurts at 7th while Brock Purdy is 2nd is crazy work.#FlyEaglesFly #Eagles pic.twitter.com/chH1kF3Kjd
— ☆𝘏𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘦𝘙𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘎𝘖𝘋☆ (@JalenCarterDPOY) May 8, 2024
Kawakami noted that Hurts’ deal underlines two essential principles: “1) the Eagles were banking on Hurts’ long-term staying power; 2) Hurts knew that his deal would be dwarfed almost instantly by (Cincinnati Bengals star Joe Burrow) and others and didn’t care about the QB salary rankings.”
Brock Purdy’s First Full Season Success
Brock Purdy ended his first full regular season leading the league with a 72.8 adjusted QBR, 113.0 passer rating, and 9.6 yards gained per pass attempt. If he can improve further in the 2024 campaign, he may wait until as late as September 2025 to negotiate a market-resetting deal.
High Expectations Ahead
While Purdy’s contract situation remains a year or more away, the comparisons to Hurts signal a growing belief in his long-term potential. Should he continue to lead the 49ers successfully, the front office will need to balance the cap intricacies to secure their rising quarterback while maintaining a competitive roster.
Source: Yardbarker
