“My grace is all you need for My power works best in weakness.” ~ 2 Corinthians 12:9
He wasn’t supposed to be there. But his journey is remarkable.
After being selected dead
last in the 2022 NFL draft, he gained the good-humored title of “Mr. Irrelevant”
and was told by most NFL scouts that he didn’t have a bright future. Little
would be expected of him. Making the practice squad would be impressive. Landing
a coveted spot on the 2021 division-title-winning San Francisco 49ers would be
highly improbable. They already had a deep pool of quarterbacks.
Despite being labeled
a “limited athlete” with “a maxed-out body,” Brock Purdy had three things in
his favor: maturity, humility, and leadership. His faith became a constant in this underdog story.
An unlikely 3-star
recruit out of Gilbert, Arizona, Purdy wasn’t initially on anyone’s radar when
he enrolled at Iowa State University. But he became a Cyclone fan favorite in
his sophomore season with clutch plays, quick thinking, and inspiration off the
field. He credits God for his success by allowing him the opportunity to play
the game he loves.
A season-ending injury
to starter Trey Lance in NFL Week 2 moved Purdy into the team’s backup role as
they searched for another quarterback. Lance was one of five quarterbacks taken
in the first round of the 2021 NFL round. He signed a four-year rookie
contract, worth $34.1 million.
Next, the 49ers placed backup Jimmy Garoppolo under center. Purdy came in for a half dozen snaps in a few games but was named the starter later after Garoppolo injured his foot against the Dolphins. He instantly became “relevant” by throwing a touchdown pass in the 33-17 win. From there, the job was his.
Purdy’s Christian faith garnered plenty of attention
leading up to the NFC Championship game against the Eagles. “My identity is in
Jesus,” he told reporters. “I’m called to share His Word.”
He led a stunning comeback in the NFC Championship. Down by
17-points, the 49ers beat the Lions 34-31, thus securing a spot in Super Bowl LVIII.
OK, so Purdy lost 25-22 to the KC Chiefs on the NFL’s
biggest stage in the Super Bowl’s version of a TKO overtime loss, Purdy
counterpunched until the end. Finishing the game 23-of-38 for 255 yards and one
touchdown with no turnovers, it was his cleanest game of the playoffs.
Brock Purdy’s faith and how he lives it in the public eye
serves as an example for Christians in how to navigate fame and success while
staying true to one’s beliefs. “It reflects my walk with Jesus,” he said. I’m
going to use this platform to magnify the One who’s given me this opportunity.”
Thank You Lord, for the positive roles
models in my life who encourage and prod me to live for You. I want to be a
godly example for others n modeling Your values. Amen
