Brock Purdy captivated sports bettors for two months with a rags-to-riches ascent from Mr. Irrelevant to starting quarterback in the NFC Championship Game.
Selected by the San Francisco 49ers with the final pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, Purdy entered the title game undefeated in eight starts after replacing an injured Jimmy Garoppolo in December. On Mojo Markets, a sports betting platform that allows users to trade athletes like stocks, Purdy's value skyrocketed an astounding 580% over the period.
Then, suddenly, it all came crashing down.
On a second-and-6 near midfield in the first quarter, Purdy faked a handoff to Christian McCaffrey and targeted Brandon Aiyuk on a crossing route deep downfield. On the strong side, however, Eagles defensive end Haason Reddick defeated a backup tight end with a bull rush and decked Purdy as he released the throw. Once he returned to the sidelines, the rookie quarterback writhed in pain, clutching his elbow.