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Colin Cowherd claims Purdy’s talent is overhyped and declares: “A 49ers rookie QB could outperform Purdy”

Colin Cowherd claims Purdy’s talent is overhyped and declares: “A 49ers rookie QB could outperform Purdy”

San Francisco, September 18, 2025

Once again, veteran commentator Colin Cowherd has stirred up the football world with a controversial statement about the San Francisco 49ers’ number one quarterback, Brock Purdy. On air, Cowherd argued that Purdy is being “overhyped” and that his success primarily stems from the offensive system built by head coach Kyle Shanahan rather than individual talent.

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“Honestly, most of Purdy’s success is due to circumstances,” Cowherd said. “San Francisco has a smart, talent-rich offensive system, and Shanahan is a genius at turning average QBs into heroes. Brock Purdy is better than Mac Jones, but is he worth hundreds of millions of dollars? I don’t think so.”

Meanwhile, Mac Jones—the backup brought in by the 49ers—delivered an explosive performance in a 26-21 victory over the New Orleans Saints in Week 2. Jones completed 26 of 39 passes, racking up 279 yards, throwing three touchdowns, and avoiding any interceptions. His poise and composure surprised many, even sparking questions about a potential competition for the QB1 spot in San Francisco.

Cowherd didn’t hesitate to emphasize: “If Mac Jones maintains this level of performance, I believe he can absolutely outperform Purdy. Jones isn’t an elite athlete, but he knows how to leverage the system and make accurate decisions. That’s what the 49ers need.”

Cowherd’s remarks are sure to ignite heated debates, especially since Purdy is still seen as the most successful leader of the 49ers since 2022. Nevertheless, with the impressive form Mac Jones has just displayed, the future of the quarterback position in San Francisco might be more intense than ever.

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49ers Owner Jed York Issues Disciplinary Action Against 49ers Fan Following Serious Altercation Outside Levi’s Stadium That Left a Disabled Seahawks Fan Hospitalized
Santa Clara, California – January 5, 2026 The San Francisco 49ers’ hard-fought win over the Seattle Seahawks should have been remembered for its intensity and playoff implications. Instead, the night took a disturbing turn away from the field. As game highlights circulated, so did a troubling video from outside Levi’s Stadium — drawing national attention to an incident that sharply conflicted with the values the franchise claims to uphold. According to authorities, a serious altercation occurred shortly after the game between a 49ers fan and a Seahawks supporter who is reportedly living with Down syndrome. What began as a verbal exchange escalated rapidly before nearby bystanders intervened. The Seahawks fan was later transported to a local hospital after experiencing dizziness and signs of shock. Law enforcement detained the 49ers fan involved, who was taken in for questioning as part of an ongoing investigation. The video spread quickly across social media, prompting widespread condemnation and shifting the conversation from football to accountability. What might have remained a deeply regrettable moment instead became a broader discussion about fan conduct, stadium safety, and responsibility at NFL venues. For an organization that has long promoted a culture of inclusion and respect, the incident stood in stark contrast to the image the 49ers have worked to cultivate. Within hours, 49ers owner Jed York made it clear the situation would not be ignored. After reviewing the incident and confirming the identity of the individual involved, York authorized immediate disciplinary action: the fan has been banned from attending games at Levi’s Stadium for the entirety of next season due to conduct deemed violent and inconsistent with team values. “This behavior is unacceptable and does not represent who we are as an organization,” York said in a statement. “Levi’s Stadium must be a place where every fan feels safe and respected. Football should bring people together — never put anyone in harm’s way.” As the 49ers now turn their focus toward the postseason, the message from ownership was unmistakable. Success on the field carries no meaning if it is not matched by accountability and responsibility beyond the sidelines.