Brock Purdy Set to Lead the San Francisco 49ers as Starting QB Next Season

Will Brock Purdy Be the 49ers’ Starting Quarterback in 2024?

As we wrap up the 2024 NFL fantasy season and peek toward next year, one of the hottest debates is about the future of Purdy and the 49ers’ quarterback position. Fantasy owners and sports bettors alike want to know: Buy or sell the idea that Brock Purdy will be the 49ers’ starting quarterback in 2024?

Buy: Brock Purdy’s Job to Lose

After bursting onto the scene in 2022 and carrying that momentum into 2023, Purdy proved he could win with Kyle Shanahan’s offense. Despite a tough playoff exit this season, Purdy’s resume—precision passing, excellent decision-making, and leadership—makes him a logical choice to remain under center. Here’s why buyers are confident:

1. Track Record of Success: Purdy has shown he can distribute the ball effectively to playmakers like Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, and Christian McCaffrey. His command of Shanahan’s system has been evident, and it’s unlikely the 49ers want to start over at QB.

2. Cost-Effectiveness: Purdy, a late-round draft pick, comes with a team-friendly rookie contract. Keeping him allows the 49ers to allocate cap space to other key players. With potential extensions for stars like Nick Bosa and McCaffrey looming, Purdy’s low cost is a major asset.

3. Limited Alternatives: Drafting or trading for another quarterback would cost significant capital, something the 49ers are unlikely to risk after spending multiple picks to acquire Trey Lance.

Sportsbooks seem to agree: early odds have Purdy as a -250 favorite to start for San Francisco in Week 1 of 2025. While competition may come in the form of a veteran backup, Purdy’s status as the presumed QB1 is strong.

Sell: 49ers Could Look for an Upgrade

For those selling the idea, skepticism revolves around whether Purdy is the right quarterback to lead a team with Super Bowl aspirations. Here’s the sell case:

1. Shanahan’s High Standards: Shanahan has historically been quick to evaluate and pivot at the quarterback position. If Purdy falters during offseason activities or preseason, the 49ers could move on. A veteran like Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons—a player Shanahan is rumored to admire—could be a realistic target in free agency.

2. Potential Trade Options: There’s speculation the 49ers might move on from big contracts like Samuel’s to free up resources. Packaging Samuel in a deal for a proven quarterback is not entirely off the table.

3. Purdy’s Ceiling: While efficient, Purdy has yet to prove he can carry the team when the chips are down. If Shanahan feels he needs a higher-upside option, the team could take a big swing on a rookie in the 2024 draft.

Betting markets also reflect this uncertainty. The odds of “Any Other QB" starting for the 49ers in Week 1 of 2024 sit at +200, signaling that while Purdy is the favorite, doubts remain.

Fantasy Implications: What It Means for 49ers Playmakers

If Purdy starts, fantasy managers can expect continuity in the 49ers’ offense. Samuel, Aiyuk, and McCaffrey would remain high-floor options, bolstered by Purdy’s consistency. A change at quarterback—especially to a rookie or unproven option—could create volatility, especially in early drafts. Fantasy drafters should monitor offseason developments closely, as these decisions will directly impact player rankings.

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Bonus Buy/Sell: Garrett Wilson of the New York Jets Fantasy Stock in 2024

Buy or Sell: Garrett Wilson as a Top-20 Fantasy Pick?

Wilson has all the talent in the world, but the uncertainty surrounding the Jets’ quarterback situation makes this a polarizing debate for fantasy drafters.

Sell: Without Aaron Rodgers, the Jets are likely to start a rookie quarterback or sign a stopgap veteran. That kind of instability could cap Wilson’s fantasy ceiling. While his target share should remain elite, inefficient QB play might push him to the third or fourth round in drafts.

Buy: If the Jets land a top-tier quarterback in free agency or via trade, Wilson could easily be a top-20 pick. Look no further than how elite quarterback play elevated Davante Adams and Stefon Diggs of the Houston Texans in recent years.

Keep an eye on betting markets for hints about the Jets’ offseason moves. If Rodgers returns, Wilson as a top-20 pick is a slam dunk. If not, proceed with caution.

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Final Thoughts
For bettors and fantasy managers alike, the offseason is a critical time for evaluating talent, team direction, and player values. Purdy and Wilson are just two of the names that could swing draft boards and betting slips alike. Stay tuned—2024 is shaping up to be another wild ride.

You can read all about what’s going on in the National Football League at SportsGrid.com.