Brock Purdy’s New Chapter: A Shift in Leadership for the 49ers

A Coaching Staff Shakeup: Brian Griese Steps Away

The NFL world is abuzz with news that Brock Purdy, the rising star quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers, will be navigating his 2025 season without a familiar face in his corner. The team recently announced their coaching staff for the upcoming year, and notably absent from the list was Brian Griese, who had served as the quarterbacks coach since 2022. Griese’s departure marks the end of an era for Purdy, who had grown accustomed to the veteran coach’s guidance. The San Francisco Chronicle revealed that Griese’s decision to step away was a personal one, driven by a desire to conclude his coaching career after three seasons. At 49 years old, Griese leaves behind a legacy that includes his pivotal role in identifying and developing Purdy, a decision that has proven to be a pivotal moment in the young quarterback’s career.

Brian Griese: The Architect Behind Purdy’s Rise

Brian Griese’s influence on Brock Purdy’s NFL journey cannot be overstated. In 2022, during the NFL Draft, Griese played a crucial role in convincing the 49ers to select Purdy, despite the quarterback being the last pick of the draft. Griese’s endorsement was rooted in a pre-draft Zoom interview with Purdy, where he was impressed by the young quarterback’s selflessness, humility, and ability to build relationships. “I know that we valued the fact that Brock was selfless,” Griese recalled in an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle. “He was humble. Relationships mattered to him. You can tell pretty quickly if a quarterback is about lifting up other people around him. Or if it’s about him.”

Griese’s belief in Purdy was not just about intangibles; he also saw something special in the quarterback’s on-field abilities. Griese, who had a storied 11-year NFL career as a player, including a Super Bowl win with the Denver Broncos in 1999, knew what it took to succeed in the league. He was particularly impressed by Purdy’s accuracy, a trait that has become a hallmark of the young quarterback’s game. Griese’s confidence in Purdy was so strong that he gave him his highest grade among all quarterbacks in the 2022 draft class. This conviction paid off, as Purdy has since emerged as one of the most promising young quarterbacks in the league.

A Bittersweet Departure: Griese’s Decision to Walk Away

Brian Griese’s decision to step away from coaching was not taken lightly. In fact, Griese had considered leaving after his first season with the 49ers, citing family considerations. However, he ultimately decided to return, a decision that proved beneficial both for him and for Purdy. Two seasons later, Griese feels the time is right to move on, a choice that has left many within the organization and its fanbase sentimental. Griese’s departure also sheds light on a previously reported decision he made earlier this offseason. When the New York Jets approached him for a head coaching interview, Griese declined. At the time, it was puzzling to some, but it now makes sense in light of his broader life priorities.

The Next Chapter: Mick Lombardi Steps Into the Spotlight

As the 49ers prepare for the 2025 season, they have turned to Mick Lombardi to fill the void left by Griese. Lombardi, who served as a senior offensive assistant for the team last season, has been promoted to quarterbacks coach. This move is a vote of confidence in Lombardi’s abilities, given his extensive experience in the league. Prior to joining the 49ers, Lombardi spent two seasons as the offensive coordinator for the Las Vegas Raiders, a role that honed his skills in developing quarterbacks and designing offensive schemes. Lombardi’s promotion signals a seamless transition, with the hope that he can build on the foundation laid by Griese.

Brock Purdy’s Road Ahead: Leading Without Griese

For Brock Purdy, the 2025 season will be a test of his resolve and growth. With Griese no longer by his side, the onus will be on Purdy to continue his upward trajectory. The 49ers are banking on Purdy to lead a turnaround after a disappointing 2023 campaign, where the team finished 6-11 and last in the NFC West. The pressure on Purdy will be immense, but he has shown time and again that he is capable of rising to the occasion. While Griese’s departure leaves a void, Purdy’s success will also depend on how quickly he adapts to Lombardi’s coaching style and philosophy.

Looking Back and Moving Forward: Reflections on an Era

As the 2025 season approaches, fans of the 49ers are filled with a mix of nostalgia and anticipation. Brian Griese’s departure marks the end of an era, one that was defined by his sharp eye for talent and his ability to nurture young players like Purdy. At the same time, the promotion of Mick Lombardi represents a new beginning, a chance for the team to build on the progress made in recent years. The focus now shifts to Purdy, who has the tools, the talent, and the determination to lead the 49ers back to prominence. With Griese’s legacy as a reminder of what’s possible, the stage is set for Purdy to write the next chapter in his NFL journey.