Brock Purdy continues to face labels like “game manager” and “system quarterback,” with many fans and analysts crediting his success to Kyle Shanahan’s scheme. Arik Armstead, though, strongly disagrees with that view.
Armstead, now with the Jaguars, sees Brock Purdy’s contributions to the 49ers differently. Having spent years as Purdy’s teammate, Armstead witnessed the quarterback’s growth firsthand and believes Purdy brought much more to the table than simply operating within Kyle Shanahan’s system.
The veteran defensive lineman discussed Purdy’s impact during an appearance on FS1’s First Things First, emphasizing that the quarterback brings more to the field than he’s given credit for.
Arik Armstead on how Brock Purdy changed the 49ers offense once he became QB1:
“I’ll tell you this. I talked to a lot of the receivers at the time, Aiyuk, Deebo. Like what’s the difference because I felt like in 2023 that was the best offense we’ve had during my entire tenure of… pic.twitter.com/hskce4Odjp
— Coach Yac 🗣 (@Coach_Yac) July 4, 2025
“I’ll tell you this. I talked to a lot of the receivers at the time, [Brandon] Aiyuk, Deebo [Samuel]. Like what’s the difference because I felt like in 2023 that was the best offense we’ve had during my entire tenure of that time. When I talked to the receivers the major difference on how Brock changed our team was the receivers felt like they could get the ball on any play,” Armstead remarked.
Arik Armstead and Brock Purdy’s time with the 49ers
The 31-year-old defensive end believes Purdy has been instrumental in elevating the 49ers’ offense, making it more versatile and effective. He argues that while Kyle Shanahan’s play-calling plays a major role, Purdy’s decision-making and instincts have been just as critical to the team’s success.
“It switched from ‘OK I’m out of the progression, I’m just doing a run off route’ to ‘I better run my best route regardless of the play because Purdy may just throw it to me and I feel like I’m better than the DB covering me and he gives me the opportunity,’” continued Armstead.
Purdy put together a Pro Bowl season in 2023, throwing 31 touchdowns and tallying 4,280 passing yards. He led the 49ers to the Super Bowl, where they ultimately lost to the Kansas City Chiefs in overtime.
Brock Purdy finished last season with 3,864 passing yards and 20 touchdowns across 15 games, a dip from his previous year. Despite the decline, former teammate Arik Armstead continues to defend him against ongoing criticism.
As the 49ers expand their offensive approach, Purdy’s role has proven to be more impactful than simply operating within a set system. Next season would be an opportunity for the young quarterback to prove himself.
