Uncovering the Hidden Gems: The Stories of Tom Brady and Brock Purdy in the NFL Draft

Late-round draft picks making a significant impact in the NFL is not a new phenomenon. From Tom Brady to Brock Purdy, these players have defied the odds and proven their worth on the field.

In 2000, the New England Patriots selected Brady with the 199th pick, and the rest is history. Brady went on to become a seven-time Super Bowl winner and solidified his place as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. Fast forward to 2022, and the San Francisco 49ers took a chance on Purdy with the 262nd and final pick of the draft. In just his second season, Purdy led the 49ers to the Super Bowl, following in Brady’s footsteps.

But why were these future stars overlooked for so long? According to Scott Pioli, the Patriots’ former director of player personnel, drafting a quarterback was not a priority for the team at the time. They had other players they felt were equally as good at their positions and could help the team more immediately. However, when Brady was still available late in the sixth round, they couldn’t pass up the opportunity to take a chance on him.

Similarly, the 49ers saw potential in Purdy despite concerns about his athleticism. Former 49ers offensive tackle Joe Staley emphasized the importance of mental toughness and character in making the jump from college to the NFL. Players like Purdy and George Kittle, a fifth-round draft pick in 2017, have shown that hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn from veteran players can lead to success in the league.

As the NFL draft approaches, teams should consider not just physical talent, but also the intangibles that can make a player stand out. The draft may be a lottery, but with the right mindset and preparation, players like Purdy and Kittle can prove that they belong among the best in the league.