Brock Purdy‘s rise has been sensational. From being Mr. Irrelevant to the 49ers’ star quarterback, it is a fairytale in its own right. But now that fairytale deserves a hefty price tag. With Purdy eligible for a new contract at season’s end, the 49ers management faces a critical decision. And now that the 2024 season has unfolded with challenges, his future with the team requires immediate attention.

On the December 13 episode of The Insiders, NFL Insider Tom Pelissero reported that Purdy’s extension could place him among the top-paid quarterbacks, around $16 million annually. Though affordable compared to Dak Prescott’s $60 million or Lamar Jackson’s $260 million extension, it’s still a big jump from Purdy’s $1.1 million 2025 salary. And Lynch might not want to wait. As delaying could make Purdy’s price skyrocket.

Purdy started his journey as the last pick of the 2022 NFL Draft. And now he is one of the NFL’s most efficient quarterbacks. Despite the team’s shaky 6-7 record in 2024, Purdy has proven himself. He has scored 13 TDs this season. His QBR rating of 64.9 places him at 14th. However, 2023 was truly his year.

He led the league in passer rating and yards per attempt in 2023. He even finished 4th in MVP voting. Injuries to Christian McCaffrey, Brandon Aiyuk, and Trent Williams have hurt his stats this year, but his leadership remains unquestionable. Lynch and Shanahan know Purdy is their future—but the team’s budget may force tough decisions elsewhere. Especially with Deebo Samuel’s uncertain contract status adding extra pressure to Lynch’s plate.

Enter Deebo Samuel. With a $60 million contract looming and only $20 million against the cap, his future in San Francisco looks murky. Could the 49ers trade their electrifying wide receiver to create room for Brock Purdy? That question is sparking debates everywhere.

Deebo Samuel’s uncertain future: The cost of keeping 49ers’ star core together

Deebo Samuel is an important piece of the 49ers’ offensive setup. But keeping him and Purdy might not be financially possible. NFL Insider Ian Rapoport recently hinted that the 49ers could restructure or even trade Deebo to manage their cap. Samuel’s production has dipped due to injuries, but his impact is undeniable when fit.

In 2021, the WR recorded 1,770 total yards with 14 touchdowns, earning him All-Pro honors. Yet, with the rise of Brandon Aiyuk and rookie Ricky Pearsall showing promise, the 49ers could explore cheaper options.

Trading Deebo would be painful for fans but might be necessary to lock in Purdy’s long-term deal. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills are apparently monitoring the situation closely. And Deebo’s contract talks could just define San Francisco’s offseason. However, NBC Sports’ Matt Maiocco noted, that the team isn’t likely to move on from Deebo.

“I would almost go so far to say that he’s guaranteed to be on the team next year, unless I’m missing something completely.” Matt confidently claimed in his YouTube video on 9th December. But Lynch’s balancing act doesn’t end with Deebo. The team also needs to address depth issues and injuries that have derailed this season. Losing key players and juggling big contracts has put San Francisco in a bind.

The 49ers are now at a crossroads. Do they go all-in on Brock Purdy and risk dismantling their core? Or can they find a way to keep their stars together? Lynch must act decisively.