In Purdy's last seven starts, he has won four games, lost three, thrown six touchdown passes and six interceptions, fumbled once and posted a passer rating of 87. That's about as average as it gets. And he's playing on the best team in football.

Purdy still hasn't entirely shaken the "system" quarterback label and other denigrations. A chance for his rebuttal is now here, and if you've been listening, he's been preparing for it for a long time.

The 49ers QB became a better vocal leader this offseason. How will that help him overcome injuries to Deebo Samuel Sr. and Christian McCaffrey?