Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones recently made headlines by drawing a surprising comparison between San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy and Kansas City Chiefs superstar Patrick Mahomes. Jones suggested that Purdy possesses certain “Mahomes-ish” qualities, which caught attention given the high bar Mahomes sets in the NFL as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks today. The comparison wasn’t necessarily about arm strength or flashy play style, but rather about poise, decision-making, and effectiveness under pressure.
Brock Purdy, who entered the league as the very last pick in the 2022 NFL Draft (earning the title of “Mr. Irrelevant”), has defied expectations with his impressive performance and rapid development as a reliable starter for the 49ers. Much like Mahomes, Purdy showed a unique ability to command the field despite being relatively new. Jones’s comment likely reflects admiration for how Purdy has handled high-stakes situations and his efficient management of the 49ers’ offense. He is often calm under pressure and makes smart, quick decisions, which are trademarks of Mahomes’ playing style, even if the two quarterbacks have different physical approaches.
Another “Mahomes-ish” quality that Jones might see in Purdy is his connection with teammates and his leadership abilities. While Mahomes is known for his rapport with players like Travis Kelce, Purdy has shown an ability to earn trust and respect within the 49ers organization, particularly with offensive weapons like George Kittle and Deebo Samuel. This leadership, coupled with Purdy’s confidence in big games, is similar to the way Mahomes galvanizes his team, providing both assurance and skill.
Additionally, Jones’s comment could signal his recognition of Purdy’s rapid ascension in the league. While Mahomes exploded onto the scene in his second year as a starter, Purdy’s rise has also been swift and surprising. Both quarterbacks have proven they can handle the mental and physical pressures of leading a team, even under the bright lights of the NFL. Jones’s comparison, though unconventional, highlights how Purdy has defied initial expectations and evolved into a strong, dependable player who can manage high-pressure scenarios with poise.
In drawing this parallel, Jones seems to acknowledge that Purdy’s rise represents a new generation of quarterbacks who can step into big roles, no matter their draft position, and command respect through smart, resilient play. This unexpected comparison underscores the impact Purdy has made in such a short time, embodying qualities that top quarterbacks like Mahomes have demonstrated.