Stronger Brock Purdy shows up to 49ers training camp

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy addressed reporters following Wednesday's practice, the first of training camp. Reporters were eager to ask the third-year player about his perceived offseason makeover, having noticed that the quarterback seemed to have added some bulk to his frame.

Purdy confirmed that he's "probably a couple pounds heavier," but he emphasized that he didn't want this added weight to overshadow his overall improvement efforts. The added muscle is simply the most visible change.

"I think feeling good and not just trying to put on weight, but good weight," Purdy told reporters. "That's right. And still being able to move around and be quick and things like that. That's all part of my game. And I didn't want to just bulk up and try to gain as much weight as I can. I was smart about it. So I've still got to move and throw well."

This offseason gave Purdy his first real opportunity to focus on his physique. During his rookie year, he was drafted last overall and had to prove himself capable of sticking on an NFL roster. Last year, his ability to work out was limited due to his recovery from offseason surgery to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow.

This year, things are different. Purdy is healthy and finally has a full season of experience under his belt.

"I feel like this year I actually had some time to work on my craft and my body and stuff," Purdy said. "But I feel like it's really just like anybody else, too, in terms of offseason. Right before camp starts, everyone gets after it and tries to get in like the best shape as they can. So that's what I did. And I think, for me, moving forward, it's like, how can I maintain that strength and all that throughout the season? And it's a grind."

Purdy's dedication during the 49ers' 40-day offseason break is no surprise to head coach Kyle Shanahan, who is familiar with his quarterback's commitment to improvement.

"Brock works really hard in the offseason," Shanahan said. "We always joke about his baby [Nick] Bosa legs. He builds those up, gets his strength. Brock is always improving each year. It's the work ethic he has, mentally and physically. He continues to get better."

Shanahan noted that adding muscle doesn't always translate into more success. Sometimes, too much muscle can unexpectedly detract from athleticism.

"So it's a lot of trial and error," Shanahan remarked. "You have to find out what makes you your best. But you know, with a quarterback, it's always a lot more legs than upper body. You want that upper body fluid. You don't want it tight, but you have to be able to handle the hits, too."

Purdy also worked on his mechanics this offseason, aiming to add more zip to his passes. During his time in Jacksonville, he utilized 3D motion capture technology to pinpoint areas for improvement, focusing on generating more power from his hips. Purdy spent a month in Jacksonville refining his mechanics compared to the couple of weeks he spent there last year.

"It was more about my elbow rehab and then I had come back here early," Purdy commented. "So I got some good time away to work on it. And I do feel like I got better just with my arm and mobility and strength. But like I said earlier, that's something that I have to maintain as we go."

Purdy hopes his enhanced physique and improved passing speed will build upon his impressive performance last season. More importantly, he aims for these changes to be small yet significant factors in helping the 49ers finally secure another championship.