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The ‘Layer King’: How 49ers QB Brock Purdy mastered one of the hardest throws in football

Purdy is terrific at layering the football -- fitting it perfectly between the second and third levels of the defense. And it's a big reason why he's playing at an MVP level this season.

Published: Monday, 19 October 2026 at 12:09 PM
The ‘Layer King’: How 49ers QB Brock Purdy mastered one of the hardest throws in football
Key Things to Know
  • Brock Purdy has mastered layering passes over defenders through rigorous film study, vision training, and practice.
  • Purdy led the NFL in QBR (85.5) and touchdown passes (13) through the first five weeks of the season.
  • The quarterback studies Drew Brees to learn how to manipulate defenders and throw with anticipation without prototypical size.
The Story in 60 Seconds

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy has excelled at throwing layered passes over defenders across the middle of the field in Kyle Shanahan's offense. Purdy refines this precision through intense practice battles against linebacker Fred Warner and film study of Drew Brees. His mastery over these high-difficulty throws helped him lead the NFL in QBR (85.5) and touchdown passes (13) through the first five weeks of the season.

To compensate for not having the physical frame of other quarterbacks, Purdy relies on off-field vision training, rapid eye movement drills, and meticulous preparation with quarterbacks coach Mick Lombardi. Teammates and Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner praised Purdy's anticipation and decision-making, while Shanahan highlighted how Purdy continually builds confidence and trust within the offense.

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