Brock Purdy’s first appearance since the Super Bowl loss didn’t go well in the 49ers’ preseason game against the Saints. In three drives, Purdy completed just 2-of-6 passes for 11 yards, with only one first down in 11 plays.
Purdy struggled, nearly throwing an interception. However, the 49ers’ makeshift offensive line didn’t help, leaving him under constant pressure from the Saints’ strong defense.
Key players were missing, including Trent Williams, Aaron Banks, Spencer Buford, and Jon Feliciano on the offensive line. Offensive weapons like Deebo Samuel, Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, Jauan Jennings, Kyle Juszczyk, and Jordan Mason were also absent.
Given these absences, it’s questionable why Purdy played multiple series in a meaningless preseason game. As an MVP finalist last season, Purdy has nothing to prove and is crucial to the 49ers’ Super Bowl aspirations.
While this poor preseason showing will likely be forgotten by the regular season opener against the Jets, it’s clear Purdy should have joined his Pro Bowl teammates on the sideline for this game.