It's still early to make a definitive pick for this year's NFL MVP award, but it sure seems like Brock Purdy might have a rock-solid case. If anything, at this point in late October, the San Francisco 49ers quarterback could actually have the best MVP case of anyone, with his 49ers looking like a bona fide juggernaut.
At the time of this writing (without taking Monday night's game against the Washington Commanders into account), Purdy is:
- Fourth in the NFL in yards per attempt (8.4)
- Third in touchdown passes (13)
- Third in passer rating (119.3)
- First in adjusted Expected Points Added (EPA) per play
- First in success rate (57.1 percent)
Put another way: Purdy has been extremely efficient while also extending and creating big plays for what sure looks like the NFL's best team this season.
I know, I know. Some might say Purdy's candidacy is made possible in the first palce by the incredible coaching and supporting cast surrounding him. Which, on some level, is true. What the stacked 49ers have available for their quarterback would be the envy of almost everyone in the NFL. Still, that feels like a cop-out when considering that every MVP-caliber quarterback is in a great situation. They wouldn't be MVPs if they didn't have a lot of help!
Also, the 49ers are notably older (and a bit more injured) these days. It's no longer a stretch to claim the 26-year-old Purdy might be the straw that stirs the drink for his talented teammates. To be sure, I'm not saying Purdy is the clear MVP favorite by any means. But if there were ever a year to finally crown him, the 2026 season feels like a golden opportunity.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Could the 49ers' Brock Purdy really win MVP?