A second 49ers wide receiver came to Brock Purdy's defense this week after the star quarterback recently faced intense criticism from NFL analysts.
All-Pro wideout Brandon Aiyuk made it clear to reporters on Wednesday how he perceives Purdy, sharing his opinion on the negative comments directed at his 24-year-old teammate.
“I don’t really talk about his critics or focus on them,” Aiyuk told reporters. “Of course we’re all sitting here because of him.”
Aiyuk knows firsthand what Purdy means to San Francisco, as the quarterback helped him earn consecutive seasons with more than 1,000 receiving yards (2022, '23).
Aiyuk appreciates the opportunity to perform alongside Purdy on Sundays and lists three qualities he values in No. 13.
“Shut up, dog, just a football player,” Aiyuk explained. “I love playing football with him. [Purdy’s] The reason I sit here today and feel like I have the opportunity to play my best football this weekend because of a quarterback like him.”
On Monday, Deebo Samuel, the 49ers' other top receiver, filled a similar defensive position for Purdy.
The Pro Bowl wideout posted an Instagram Story denouncing ESPN's Ryan Clark, who went on a lengthy rant on “First Take” about how the second-year quarterback may be a product of elite coaching and teammates.
“I have never seen so much hate for a QB who leads the league in almost every category. Be crazy everyone,” Samuel posted on his Instagram story. “The [tape] Don’t tell lies.”
Even if critics don't want to admit it, Purdy has the trust and support of the right people.
Purdy's receivers are in his corner, in addition to Hall of Famers Steve Young and Kurt Warner, meaning the Iowa State product must be doing something right.
After all, thanks to Purdy, the 49ers are just one home win away from reaching their eighth Super Bowl.
On Sunday, Purdy can seal San Francisco's deal in the NFC Championship Game against the Detroit Lions at 3:30 p.m. PT at Levi's Stadium.
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