What We Can Learn From Brock Purdy
Author: Tim Burke
I imagine the first thing I need to answer is: “Brock who?” Two weeks ago, I’d never heard of him either. Brock Purdy was the last pick in the 2022 NFL draft, aka Mr. Irrelevant. Hailing from Iowa State, Brock was selected by the San Francisco 49ers. He made the team as a third-string QB, and for 12 weeks, sat quietly and comfortably on the bench behind two other players. Well, as happens in football, the starting QB, Trey Lance, was lost for the season in Week 2 with an ankle fracture. And then in Week 13, Lance’s backup, Jimmy Garoppolo, found himself limping off the field with a season-ending foot injury. Thus, in comes Mr. Irrelevant.
With incredibly low expectations for all watching, Brock Purdy managed not only to carry the 49ers to a victory over the Dolphins, but he threw for 210 yards and 2 TDs. Fluke, right? Well, the following week Brock went up against Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The 262nd pick from 2022 versus arguably the greatest quarterback ever. Brock once again not only helped lead his team to a 35-7 win, but he threw for two scores and ran one in.
But enough about the stats. What, as non-NFL folks, can we learn from Brock Purdy’s story? Well, quite a lot:
Look Ahead. You never know when your big opportunity is going to come knocking. You may be responsible for certain tasks right now, but look ahead and ask yourself, “What should I be preparing for?” While talent matters, it alone won’t get you ready. Sharpen your skills every day. “Work that muscle,” as they say. It’s really hard to take the next step if you haven’t mastered the current one. Also, take on and participate in endeavors that will help expedite your readiness. Prepare today for what you may be called on to do tomorrow.
Study your field. No matter what industry you’re in, it helps to be an active student of it. Pay attention to what’s happening around you. Lean on and learn from those ahead of you on the depth chart, too. As an example, in the world of advertising, we should constantly be reviewing the work of other brands, agencies and leaders. We should be familiarizing ourselves with new, different ways of marketing. We should be searching for inspiration and ways to elevate our craft. Again, when you’re called upon for the job, you’re steps ahead.
Ignore labels. I can’t think of a worse label than “Mr. Irrelevant.” A title like that could really dim how someone views their future. Or even worse, make them re-evaluate everything. Brock Purdy, software programmer? Anyhow, wherever you work, whatever title you have, don’t feel limited by your or anyone else’s perception. Great work, big ideas and incredible accomplishments can be achieved by anyone with any role at any stage in their career. This also applies to who we hire and choose as partners. Way too often, we all get too caught up in perceived status versus actual capabilities. Greatness is everywhere. Just ask the 199th pick in 2000 NFL draft. Hint: I mentioned his name earlier.
While the jury is still very much out on Brock Purdy’s football legacy (in fact he plays again tonight), his story of transcending from Mr. Irrelevant to a crowd favorite is one of inspiration. It’s also a terrific reminder to always be preparing, not to worry about labels and know that your relevancy is always there.