Brock Purdy has already earned immense respect, and the latest talk is how he could become an immortal legend by doing something seriously wild: turning Dante Pettis into an NFL wide receiver. Yeah, *that* Dante Pettis. It’s a bold claim, but the curiosity around how Pettis has adjusted and evolved since his first stint in the league is absolutely real, especially with the 49ers reuniting with their former second-round pick.
The Pettis Comeback: A Real Test for Everyone
Look, the initial belief in Pettis was there for a lot of us, and it was rough to see things go sideways before. But after bouncing around the league for a while, maybe he’s gained that edge. Last season, in 2025, Pettis suited up for the Saints in eight games, snagging nine receptions for 127 yards and averaging 14.1 yards per catch. His most recent touchdown grab came even earlier, in 2024, also with New Orleans. These aren’t eye-popping numbers, but they show he’s been in the mix. Now, the 49ers are bringing him back, and it’s going to be fascinating to see if Purdy can actually unlock something new in him.
Purdy’s Aggression Is Making Defenses Pay
Forget the easy outs, because that’s just not how Brock Purdy is wired. Sure, Kyle Shanahan might draw up a six-yard pass to George Kittle or a swing pass to Deebo Samuel, but more often than not, Purdy is forgoing those gimme completions. He’s looking for the tight-window throw 15 yards downfield. We’ve seen it every week, from his first dropback to Mike Evans, to later a backside throw to Kittle. He isn’t interested in just the first-level routes; this dude wants to push the ball.
What’s really making defenses sweat is how much he’s grown, even since last year. Purdy’s ability to manipulate defenders is on another level, something you can only do if you know the offense inside and out. He’s got a knack for hitting those second and third progressions in a blink, but he’s also holding defenders with his eyes, creating massive throwing windows. For two weeks straight now, Purdy has been manufacturing chunk plays against the blitz. Most QBs would check the ball down for a five-yard gain against five- or six-man rushes, but not Purdy. He’s a swing-for-the-fences kind of quarterback, and if you think you can get over on him by bringing extra rushers, he’s going to make you pay.
Looking Ahead to Week 4 Against the Broncos
So, what’s next for the 49ers? They’re gearing up for a Week 4 matchup against the Denver Broncos. It’s going to be a busy week of preparation. Wednesday, September 30, kicks off with Kyle Shanahan’s press conference before practice. Thursday, October 1, has practice early, followed by press conferences from Raheem Morris, Klay Kubiak, and then Brock Purdy himself. Friday, October 2, wraps up with another practice and then Shanahan talking to the media again. Everyone will be watching to see if Purdy keeps up his aggressive playmaking, and maybe, just maybe, we’ll get an early glimpse of what this Dante Pettis reunion could really mean.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Niners Nation.
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