SANTA CLARA — In the first week of the San Francisco 49ers’ Organized Team Activities (OTAs), a new connection between quarterback Brock Purdy and veteran wide receiver Demarcus Robinson has turned heads, creating an unexpected buzz on the practice field. With key players absent and significant roster changes following a challenging 2024 season, this duo is showing potential to become a formidable new weapon for the team.
Robinson – The Veteran Shining Bright
Demarcus Robinson, with nine years of NFL experience, has quickly established himself in the 49ers’ receiving corps. During Wednesday’s practice, Robinson stood out with his catching ability and versatility, particularly as Jauan Jennings, one of Purdy’s primary targets, was held back to work with the strength and conditioning staff.
Brock Purdy was full of praise for his new teammate: “Demarcus is awesome. He brings veteran experience to the receiver room, showing professionalism and leading the younger guys. He’s smart, picks up the playbook quickly, and competes hard every day. You can see he knows how to run routes precisely and doesn’t make mistakes.”
Despite a slow start with a dropped pass disrupted by cornerback Deommodore Lenoir, Robinson quickly bounced back. He made a tough 25-yard catch down the sideline while tightly covered by safety Jason Pinnock, followed by another impressive grab against cornerback Tre Brown. These moments highlighted Robinson’s adaptability and sharpness, even against a strong defensive challenge.
Purdy – A Leader Under New Pressure
Brock Purdy, fresh off signing a 5-year, $265 million extension with the 49ers, is entering the 2025 season with higher expectations than ever. From being the last pick in the 2022 NFL Draft (Mr. Irrelevant), Purdy has risen to become one of the league’s top quarterbacks, leading the 49ers to two NFC Championship games and a Super Bowl appearance. However, the 2024 season was rocky, with a 6-11 record largely due to injuries to key players like Christian McCaffrey, Brandon Aiyuk, and Trent Williams.
Still, Purdy remains confident and maintains his leadership style. During OTAs, he showcased his precision in passing, particularly when connecting with Robinson and Jennings. A pinpoint 20-yard pass down the middle to rookie Ricky Pearsall in an earlier practice further demonstrated Purdy’s ability to orchestrate the offense, even with a transitioning receiving corps.
When asked about the pressure of his new contract, Purdy told NBC Sports Bay Area: “I don’t think my mindset will change just because I’m getting paid more. I’ll still prepare for every game with the same approach, putting the team in the best position to win. I’ve done that at a high level for the past three years, and I’ll keep doing it.”
New Chemistry, New Prospects
Robinson’s arrival in the 49ers’ lineup not only adds experience but also provides Purdy with a reliable option amid changes in the receiving corps. With Brandon Aiyuk still recovering from an ACL injury and Deebo Samuel traded, Robinson, alongside Jennings and rookie Ricky Pearsall, will play a critical role in shaping the 49ers’ offense for the 2025 season.
Brock Purdy with the PERFECT Spiral to DeMarcus Robinson🌀😵💫#49ers | #FTTB pic.twitter.com/EOrA23lhw2
— Sterling Bennett (@49ers_Access) June 5, 2025
Although Robinson is currently facing legal issues related to a DUI charge from November last year, he is expected to remain a key part of the team. Barring unforeseen developments, Robinson could face a three-game suspension for a first-time violation, but this has not diminished his impact in current practices.
Defying Expectations
The connection between Purdy and Robinson is sending a strong message: the 49ers are not just restructuring their roster but are poised to create surprises. With a 2025 schedule projected to be the easiest in the NFL based on opponents’ 2024 results, this is an opportunity for Purdy and his teammates to prove they can overcome last season’s struggles.
Robinson’s presence, combined with the return of key players like Christian McCaffrey and the development of rookies like Pearsall, offers hope that the 49ers can reclaim their status as championship contenders. While some, like Brandon Aiyuk’s receiving coach T.J. Houshmandzadeh, argue that Purdy’s contract is “too high” unless he leads the team to a Super Bowl, the OTA performances of Purdy and Robinson are challenging those doubts.
Conclusion
As the 49ers gear up for the 2025 season, the partnership between Brock Purdy and Demarcus Robinson is becoming a focal point. With Robinson’s experience and Purdy’s talent, this duo is not only building a new connection on the field but also laying the foundation for a promising season. Can they turn their OTA moments into real success on the gridiron? Only time will tell, but for now, they’re making the NFL take notice.