Brock Purdy's Promotion Challenges 49ers' Roster Flexibility

As of August 7th, 2025, the San Francisco 49ers have made Brock Purdy their undisputed franchise quarterback. This decision, however, comes with significant challenges for the team's roster and financial flexibility.

In previous seasons, the quarterback position was not the most important factor for the 49ers' success. Head coach Kyle Shanahan had built a scheme and roster that elevated the play of his signal-callers. But now, with Purdy's promotion and the accompanying salary increase, he has become the most crucial player on the team.

One of the biggest advantages the 49ers had with Purdy in recent years was his low salary as a seventh-round draft pick. This allowed the team to have more financial flexibility compared to other contenders paying their quarterbacks exorbitant salaries. However, Purdy's contract is set to balloon in the next couple of seasons, forcing the 49ers to make difficult decisions.

This offseason, the team has already let go of several key players, including Aaron Banks, Talanoa Hufanga, and Dre Greenlaw, hoping that in-house replacements can step up. The 49ers now have at least eight players from the last two draft classes slated to play significant roles, leaving little margin for error when it comes to their depth.

Purdy's performance will be crucial in determining the 49ers' success and the overall direction of the franchise. If he continues to excel, he has enough talent around him to make the team legitimate contenders. However, if he plateaus or regresses, the 49ers will need every last draft pick to hit, or they could face significant consequences.