At a bustling morning gathering in Palm Beach, Florida, San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York offered some insight into the team’s quiet offseason strategy, making his first public comments after the franchise let go of 17 players and restrained its spending on new recruits.
York attributed these conservative moves to the forthcoming substantial payday for quarterback Brock Purdy. He brushed off accusations of being “cheap,” pointing out that the 49ers have been high spenders over the past five years. “I’ve been called worse,” he quipped, recognizing fans’ desires for victory and acknowledging their frustrations during the frenzied opening days of free agency. Yet, York insisted that there wasn’t a free agent this year who could impact the team like investing in Purdy could.
From last year’s league gathering in Orlando, York had been vocal about wanting to approve one of the most significant pay raises in NFL history for Purdy. Despite Purdy’s challenging 2024 season, which saw injury sidelining many key players and Purdy’s stats falling from his near-MVP level 2023 performance, York is committed to keeping him on board for the long term.
The Niners’ decision to prioritize a mega-deal for Purdy was solidified midway through the season as the team grappled with a 6-11 record, still in pursuit of their sixth Lombardi Trophy. On Tuesday, York endorsed Purdy as a top-10 league quarterback, signaling that a hefty payday was warranted.
“He’s a remarkable player,” York praised, especially when paired with coach Kyle Shanahan. “We want him here for the long haul.”
With this focus, the offseason saw more exits than entries for the Niners. Key players like linebacker Dre Greenlaw and cornerback Charvarius Ward were among those who parted ways with the team, while trades and releases impacted other notable names like Deebo Samuel and Leonard Floyd. Such moves added over $86 million in dead money to the 2025 salary cap but aimed to clear future financial flexibility.
“It’s just simple math,” York explained, describing the reshuffling necessary to afford Purdy’s contract. “Adjustments have to be made, but it’s a direction we’ve agreed upon.”
This strategic shift also aligns with other narratives surrounding the franchise and the York family’s evolving sports investments. While they already own Leeds United, reports have surfaced about a potential purchase of Scotland’s Rangers FC—raising eyebrows regarding financial priorities. York was quick to clarify any decisions to invest in sports properties are separate from the 49ers’ budgets.
Moreover, as rumors swirl about selling a minority stake in the team to potential investors, York noted that the family frequently considers offers. Any potential sale would hinge on aligning with family goals and finding partners that complement the 49ers’ vision both on and off the field.
Amid these developments, negotiations with Purdy remain a priority. While General Manager John Lynch is optimistic about sealing the deal soon, York refrained from setting a timeline but expressed confidence in the progress. “I don’t negotiate contracts, but my talks with Brock have been positive,” York reassured. “When it’s the right time, it’ll be an easy final step.”
