Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua is used to sticking his nose into traffic to make a catch. Recently, the star wideout leaned into chatter about division-rival quarterback Brock Purdy's contract.
Joining a recent episode of Julian Edelman's "Games With Names" podcast, Nacua was asked if he thought Purdy warranted a new contract averaging in the high $40 millions per year.
"I think, no. I think mid-4s," the receiver responded, saying it should be closer to $45 million.
Edelman noted that if Purdy does take a contract in the mid-40 million, it would be a smart deal for the club.
"I think he seems like a smart guy," Nacua responded. "They have a chance to still be in their window. And I think if he goes for a 5 [$50 million-plus], then the window closes. Right?"
It's rare for players to discuss others' contracts, especially that of a division rival. Perhaps realizing that, Nacua tossed some praise on the Niners to finish the thought.
"I mean, as long as they have Fred (Warner) on the other side, I think they'll be able to figure some things out," he added.
Purdy, the final pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, has played for peanuts for three seasons, including one run to the Super Bowl. The Niners have spent the offseason shedding contracts partly to get their books in order and partly with the presumption that Purdy's payday is coming.
A $45 million-per-year deal would be a steal for the Niners at this point. Far less accomplished QBs are making much more than that. Based on cap percentages and the belief that it'll continue to rise, a deal starting with a 5 seems likely. The question hovering around San Francisco is when that deal gets done and whether -- like other recent 49ers pacts -- it lingers late into the summer.
