Football fans can’t help but cheer for San Francisco quarterback Brock Purdy (except when the 49ers play the Chiefs in Super Bowl LVIII on February 11.) He said he leaned on his faith in God when his team trailed by 17 points in the NFC championship game and prayed at one point, “Win or lose, I’m gonna glorify you.”
He’s been consistent in that view and fame doesn’t impress him. “I was reminded what Jesus told us thousands of years ago,” Purdy told News Nation. “If you try to chase fame, status, money, you’ll lose your life. Keeping your eyes on Jesus and his promises … that’s a life worth living.”
Purdy completed 20 of 31 passes for 267 yards and one touchdown, helping the 49ers rally from a 24-7 deficit to defeat Detroit 34-31. He will be the third-youngest quarterback to start a Super Bowl. His rise-to-success story has captivated fans and NFL observers. He was the very last pick in the 2022 NFL draft — pick No. 262 out of 262 selections — but nevertheless has guided the 49ers to two straight NFC title game appearances.
After Sunday’s victory, Purdy was asked in a news conference to reflect on his football journey.
“I honestly think this is a testament to God and where he’s taking me in life,” he said. “I’ve never been the biggest, the fastest, the strongest or any of that. I feel like I’ve always sort of had to fight for what I get and work for what I get. But God’s always given me an opportunity, whether that was in high school, college and then obviously in the NFL.”
The last person picked in the NFL draft is nicknamed “Mr. Irrelevant.” In 2022, Purdy started the season as the 49ers’ third-string quarterback but became the starter that December due to a string of injuries
“Getting drafted last — people you know, overlook you and all that kind of stuff,” he said. “And then all you need is an opportunity. I put my faith and trust in him, and he’s gotten me where I’m at.”
Purdy’s Twitter and Instagram bios say “Believer in Christ” and “Follower of Christ,” respectively. His Twitter bio includes a Bible verse, Colossians 3:23,: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”
“My identity is in Jesus,” he said.
–Alan Goforth | Metro Voice
