Brock Purdy Leads 49ers MVP Push With Historic Start

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy has become an early 2026 NFL MVP contender after leading the team to a 4-0 start through the first four games of the season, with his passing efficiency and decision-making driving the undefeated record.

According to The Reporter, Purdy has completed 79 of 113 passes for 1,007 yards, 11 touchdowns and one interception, while posting a 126.2 passer rating that leads the NFL. He has also added 20 rushing attempts for 122 yards and one touchdown.

RTE reported that Purdy became the first 49ers quarterback since Hall of Famer Steve Young to open a season with multiple touchdown passes in each of his first four games. He has also avoided a sack through the opening stretch.

The quarterback entered the league as the final selection of the 2022 NFL Draft and became San Francisco's starter after injuries to Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo. His early success led the team to keep him as its long-term starter.

Tom Brady highlighted Purdy's composure when discussing the quarterback in 2024.

"I think it’s poise and composure," Brady said of Purdy.

Brady also described the trait he values most from a quarterback operating under pressure.

"It’s calm under chaos, that’s what the quarterback needs to do," Brady said of Purdy.

The Reporter compared Purdy's opening four games with recent MVP winners. The outlet noted that the past five AP NFL MVPs started 3-1, while only Purdy and Patrick Mahomes began the 2026 season 4-0.

SI reported that Purdy's production has drawn increased attention from analysts, while former NFL player LeSean McCoy discussed the quarterback's current level of play.

"This is the thing nowadays, it can’t just be like he’s really really good. He’s really really good. It’s either gotta be great and elite or you’re terrible.

There’s nothing in the middle. I think Brock Purdy today, it’s not the first time Brock Purdy has played MVP caliber football, I think Brock is a phenomenal quarterback. He’s really really good.

He’s damn good…" LeSean McCoy said on Speakeasy.

McCoy continued his assessment by comparing Purdy's recognition with other elite quarterbacks.

"I have a lot of respect for Brock Purdy and if he wins an MVP I’ll have even more respect for him, but for me, being around this game and watching it, there’s no way I’m ever gonna put Brock Purdy in the same boat as Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson. It’s just never gonna happen. But you can’t say he’s not playing as good as them guys." LeSean McCoy said on Speakeasy.

The 49ers entered their next matchup against the Seattle Seahawks with a chance to strengthen their position in the NFC West. RTE reported San Francisco had won 11 of its previous 13 games, with both losses coming against Seattle.