Netflix Releases Highly Anticipated Documentary on Brock Purdy Titled “THE UNDERDOG”
A Deep Dive into the Journey of the San Francisco 49ers’ Star Quarterback
March 23, 2025
Introduction: A Story That Had to Be Told
Netflix has officially announced the release of its latest highly anticipated sports documentary, “THE UNDERDOG,” a captivating deep dive into the inspirational rise of Brock Purdy, the San Francisco 49ers’ franchise quarterback.
Set to premiere on March 25, 2025, “THE UNDERDOG” is expected to provide an unfiltered and emotional journey through Purdy’s career, from being labeled “Mr. Irrelevant” as the last pick in the 2022 NFL Draft to becoming one of the NFL’s biggest success stories.
With exclusive access to Purdy’s personal life, training regimen, and on-field triumphs, the six-part documentary promises to give fans a never-before-seen perspective on the quarterback’s relentless pursuit of greatness.
The Making of “THE UNDERDOG”
Why Brock Purdy?
Brock Purdy’s journey is the definition of an underdog story.
• High school: Overlooked by major college programs.
• College: A three-star recruit who made a name for himself at Iowa State.
• NFL Draft: The very last pick in the 2022 Draft—earning the unwanted title of “Mr. Irrelevant.”
• 49ers Career: Stepped in due to injuries and took over the league with his clutch performances, proving doubters wrong.
His rise to fame, resilience through injuries, and ability to lead one of the most storied franchises in the NFL make his story perfect for Netflix’s next big sports documentary.
Director and Production Team
The documentary is directed by Greg Whiteley, the award-winning filmmaker behind Last Chance U and QB1: Beyond the Lights.
Whiteley, known for capturing the raw emotions of athletes, was eager to document Purdy’s extraordinary rise:
“Brock Purdy’s journey is a masterclass in perseverance. He embodies what it means to defy the odds. This story had to be told.”
Produced in collaboration with NFL Films, the documentary features behind-the-scenes footage, exclusive interviews, and never-before-seen game footage.
What to Expect in “THE UNDERDOG”
The documentary is structured into six compelling episodes, each focusing on a pivotal chapter in Purdy’s football journey, struggles, and triumphs.
Episode 1: “Mr. Irrelevant”
• The episode opens with Purdy’s childhood dreams of playing in the NFL.
• Features high school highlights, interviews with his parents, and his recruitment journey.
• Covers his stellar career at Iowa State, where he became the school’s winningest quarterback.
• The shock of being the last pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, with raw footage of the moment he got the call from the 49ers.
Episode 2: “Next Man Up”
• How Purdy started his NFL journey as a third-string quarterback behind Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo.
• Features exclusive footage of his first days at the 49ers’ facility.
• The unexpected turning point—Jimmy Garoppolo’s injury in Week 13, which forced Purdy to take the reins.
• Mic’d-up footage of his first career start against Tom Brady and the Buccaneers.
Episode 3: “Proving Them Wrong”
• Chronicles Purdy’s remarkable rookie season in 2022.
• Includes his playoff run, where he helped lead the 49ers to the NFC Championship Game.
• Interviews with Kyle Shanahan, Christian McCaffrey, and George Kittle on why Purdy became the perfect fit for the 49ers’ offense.
• Explores the media’s skepticism and how analysts continued to doubt him despite his success.
Episode 4: “Setbacks and Comebacks”
• Covers Purdy’s devastating elbow injury in the NFC Championship Game against the Eagles.
• Behind-the-scenes footage of his grueling rehab process and the mental toll of being sidelined.
• Exclusive interview with Dr. Keith Meister, the surgeon who performed Purdy’s UCL repair.
• Purdy’s comeback in 2023, proving he could still perform at an elite level.
Episode 5: “A Franchise QB?”
• Explores the 2023 and 2024 seasons, where Purdy silenced all doubts about his legitimacy as a starting quarterback.
• Features locker room speeches, team meetings, and on-field highlights.
• How Purdy’s leadership won over the entire 49ers franchise.
• Interviews with NFL legends, including Joe Montana and Steve Young, analyzing Purdy’s impact.
Episode 6: “The Underdog’s Legacy”
• Examines how Purdy’s mentality, faith, and leadership shaped his career.
• His impact on the future of the quarterback position in the NFL.
• What’s next for Purdy and his ultimate goal of bringing a Super Bowl to San Francisco.
Exclusive Interviews and Never-Before-Seen Footage
One of the most exciting aspects of “THE UNDERDOG” is the star-studded list of interviewees, including:
49ers Inner Circle
• Kyle Shanahan – On why Purdy was the perfect quarterback for his system.
• George Kittle & Christian McCaffrey – On Purdy’s work ethic and leadership in the locker room.
• Fred Warner – On why Purdy is “the real deal.”
NFL Legends and Analysts
• Joe Montana & Steve Young – Breaking down Purdy’s style of play and its historical significance.
• Kurt Warner – Comparing Purdy’s story to his own underdog journey.
• Pat McAfee & Shannon Sharpe – On Purdy’s impact on modern football.
Reaction from the Football World
As news of “THE UNDERDOG” spread, social media erupted with excitement:
• Patrick Mahomes (@PatrickMahomes): “Excited to see @BrockPurdy’s journey. Well deserved, bro!”
• Deebo Samuel (@19problemz): “Man, y’all better be watching this one. Brock is HIM.”
• Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless): “Will this documentary prove Purdy is ELITE? I’m watching.”
NFL fans are eager to see what makes Purdy tick, and this documentary will finally answer the burning question: How did the last pick in the draft become one of the league’s best quarterbacks?
Could This Be the Start of More NFL Documentaries?
Netflix has found great success in sports documentaries, with Formula 1: Drive to Survive and Quarterback becoming massive hits.
If “THE UNDERDOG” performs well, we could see more player-specific NFL documentaries, highlighting other breakout stars.
Who could be next?
• C.J. Stroud’s breakout rookie season?
• Patrick Mahomes’ dynasty-building journey?
• The rise of defensive superstars like Micah Parsons?
One thing is certain—Netflix is revolutionizing how sports fans experience the game.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch for Football Fans
“THE UNDERDOG” is more than just a documentary—it’s an inspiration for every athlete who’s ever been doubted.
Brock Purdy’s rise to stardom proves that hard work, resilience, and belief can overcome any odds.
As we count down to March 25, one question remains:
Will Brock Purdy complete his underdog story by winning a Super Bowl?
For now, fans can relive his incredible journey—only on Netflix.
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