San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan sees a familiar quality in Brock Purdy, comparing the quarterback’s command of the offense to former NFL MVP Matt Ryan ahead of Monday night’s game against Washington.
Shanahan said both quarterbacks stand out for executing the game plan, recognizing defensive looks and delivering the ball before pressure disrupts a play.
“They’re very similar in just how good they are in executing everything,” Shanahan said. “They know how to get rid of the ball, they know how to make plays. Those guys both do that at such a high level.”
Shanahan also made clear that Purdy and Ryan are not identical players. He described Purdy as more mobile, while Ryan is taller and leaner, but said both can run an offense at a high level. He said his earlier confidence comment concerned Purdy running the offense, not identical playing styles.
The comparison carries weight because Shanahan worked with Ryan in Atlanta, including the 2016 season when Ryan won the NFL MVP award and led the Falcons to Super Bowl LI.
Purdy has helped San Francisco open the season 5-0, keeping the 49ers atop the NFC West entering Week 6. The team’s latest win was a 32-29 victory over Seattle, sealed by a late field goal after a turnover-filled game.
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The quarterback has operated with changes around him as San Francisco manages injuries across its roster. That context makes Shanahan’s emphasis on quick decisions and reliable execution relevant, although his comparison focused on their command of the offense rather than physical similarities.
The 49ers host Washington on Monday night looking to protect their unbeaten start. Shanahan’s comments show his trust in Purdy: he sees a quarterback who can process the plan, find answers under pressure and put the offense in position to make plays.
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