It isn't a mystery how San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy feels about the team's decision to move on from utility weapon Deebo Samuel. While the veteran has slowed a step and continues to struggle to stay healthy, this perspective makes sense. It is one not just based on the production Samuel has offered, but a personal relationship that has helped Purdy grow as a player. The 49ers' franchise quarterback started his comments by offering that "it sucks" when asked about the trade.
The choice to move on from Samuel still appears to be the right one when you consider the salary cap situation. San Francisco was forced to face the reality of paying Purdy while keeping a veteran roster together. After taking a huge step back in the 2024 season, this is far from easy. It requires a level of sacrifice and that meant moving on from Samuel even if it meant Purdy's comments made his frustration clear.
Brock Purdy Shares Kind Words on Ex-Teammate Deebo Samuel
"I love Deebo. Day 1, he’s always had my back and believed in me when I got in. I didn’t really know how the guys were going to take it when I did get thrown in. Jimmy went down, I was the last quarterback, and Deebo was nothing but just great to me, dude, building me up, and just giving me confidence. In games, we fed off each other’s energy and building each other up. It was awesome, and over the last couple of years, same thing. So, we created just a great relationship. He’s my brother."Brock Purdy
There shouldn't be any level of concern when it comes to making the quarterback upset with this decision. The 49ers are the only team in the league able to give the starter this level of weapons in a system that is noted for propping up its players. Purdy is in the perfect situation and simply cannot use what little leverage he has.
While the frustration with the decision is obvious from the comment, there isn't a reason to think things have reached a boiling point. The fact that Purdy still signed the extension despite the concerns answers any remaining questions about his opinion of the organization.
Still, it isn't an easy decision to swallow when you look at the chemistry of the duo. It is understandable for Purdy to have a level of frustration with the decision, even with it remaining clear that it was the only one left.