Brock Purdy, the San Francisco 49ers quarterback, has dedicated his offseason to enhancing his physical and mental game. Coming off a breakthrough season and fully recovered from a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, Purdy has been able to focus on elevating his game to another level. This article delves into Purdy's diet and workout routine, exploring how he has transformed his body and mind to meet the demands of the NFL.
Offseason Preparation: Building Strength and Refining Technique
Last year, Purdy's offseason was primarily focused on rehabbing his arm and getting healthy. This year, he had the opportunity to dedicate time to his craft and body. Purdy emphasized that his approach was similar to other players who strive to get in the best shape before training camp. His focus extended beyond just gaining weight; he aimed to add "good weight" while maintaining his mobility and quickness, essential components of his game.
Purdy spent time in Jacksonville working on mechanical adjustments to improve his throwing efficiency. He utilized 3D motion capture technology to analyze his mechanics and optimize his on-field training, focusing on generating power from his hips. This comprehensive approach allowed him to make significant strides in his arm strength and mobility.
Physical Transformation: Gaining Strength and Flexibility
Purdy's workout routine focused on adding flexibility and mobility. He recognized the importance of being in the best possible shape for the season, which he described as a marathon. His goal was to enhance his ability to run, make plays, and throw the ball while maintaining his physical condition throughout the season.
During the offseason, Purdy's workout routine focused on adding muscle to his frame. He wanted to get bigger so he could better deal with the wear and tear of the season and felt like a stronger lower half would also help bolster his arm strength.
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Purdy gained a couple of pounds, prioritizing "good weight" to enhance his overall performance without compromising his agility. He wanted to get bigger so he could better deal with the wear and tear of the season and felt like a stronger lower half would also help bolster his arm strength.
Enhancing Throwing Velocity: Mechanics and Physical Training
Purdy focused on improving his throwing velocity through mechanical adjustments and physical training. By analyzing his throwing motion with 3D motion capture, he identified areas for improvement and worked on optimizing the sequencing of his hips and shoulders.
The focus wasn't solely on arm strength; Purdy emphasized the importance of lower body strength in generating power. He worked on physical training to enhance his overall strength and ensure that his hips and shoulder were working in sync to maximize throwing velocity.
Mental Fortitude: Leadership and Situational Awareness
Beyond the physical aspects, Purdy dedicated time to developing his mental game. He studied his performance from the previous season, identifying areas where he could improve his progressions, footwork, and game management. He also focused on growing into his leadership role within the team.
Griese said that Purdy worked on situational awareness on top of all the progressions and then growing as a leader off the field and in the locker room and what that entails and what that looks like.
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Purdy's mental preparation also involved embracing his growing celebrity and using his platform to connect with fans. He made appearances, such as throwing out the first pitch at a San Francisco Giants game. As many of the Niners' top stars either rehabbed an injury or didn't participate in the offseason program, Purdy didn't shy away from having a louder voice on the practice field or in meetings.
Team Leadership: A Growing Voice
Purdy's teammates have noticed his increased vocal presence in the locker room and on the field. He has embraced his role as the unquestioned QB1, taking the initiative to lead and hold his teammates accountable.
End Nick Bosa said, "I think he's definitely getting a little more vocal within the building. I don't think he's somebody that's going to change even when he gets paid next year."
Shanahan said that Purdy is definitely ahead of where he was last year this time, and it's been awesome for him to lead us through the whole offseason, just drillwise and everything and it's been great to have [him] for a first full offseason.
Overcoming Obstacles: Injury and Rehabilitation
The dates and moments still sit fresh in Purdy's mind. The memory of tearing the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow during the 2023 NFC Championship Game in Philadelphia, followed by surgery in March. While he was around the team that offseason and fully expected to step back into the starting role when healthy, there was at least some uncertainty until he was fully cleared to return.
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Purdy spent those OTAs and the offseason program studying cutups with Shanahan and quarterbacks coach Brian Griese. When it came time to translate what he learned from those sessions to the field, the best Purdy could do was watch from the sideline and take the reps mentally. Shanahan said Purdy was frustrated by those circumstances but quickly noticed an extra bounce in Purdy's step when he was able to jump in from the first day of the first phase of this year's program.
Contract and Future: Focus on the Present
Purdy is entering the third year of his rookie contract and slated to make a base salary of just $985,000 with a cap number just north of $1 million. As Bosa points out, that is all but certain to change next year when Purdy is eligible to negotiate a contract extension for the first time.
Purdy remains grounded. He is focused on winning this year and contributing to the organization's success. He avoids getting caught up in speculation about future contracts and remains committed to the present.