Netflix Unveils “THE UNDERDOG”: A Riveting Documentary on Brock Purdy’s Remarkable NFL Journey
On March 25, 2025, Netflix premiered THE UNDERDOG, a captivating six-part documentary series that chronicles the extraordinary life and career of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy. Produced in collaboration with NFL Films,
the series offers an intimate look at the 25-year-old’s meteoric rise from the last pick in the 2022 NFL Draft—famously dubbed “Mr. Irrelevant”—to one of the NFL’s most inspiring underdog stories. Through exclusive footage, personal interviews, and
heartfelt storytelling, THE UNDERDOG captures Purdy’s resilience, faith, and unwavering determination, both on and off the field.
Born and raised in Queen Creek, Arizona, Purdy’s journey began far from the NFL spotlight. The documentary opens with his high school days at Perry High School, where he led his team to a state championship game, showcasing early signs of the leadership and poise that would define his career. Archival footage and interviews with childhood coaches paint a picture of a young athlete with an unrelenting work ethic, even when overlooked by bigger programs.
Purdy’s college career at Iowa State University is a focal point, detailing how he became the Cyclones’ winningest quarterback, setting records and earning a reputation for clutch performances. The series uses game highlights and commentary from former coaches to illustrate his ability to thrive under pressure, a trait that would soon captivate NFL fans.
The heart of THE UNDERDOG lies in Purdy’s improbable NFL journey. Selected as the 262nd and final pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Purdy was an afterthought for many teams. However, injuries to 49ers quarterbacks Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo thrust him into the starting role as a rookie. The documentary masterfully captures this turning point, blending game footage with candid moments from the 49ers’ locker room.
Interviews with teammates like All-Pro tight end George Kittle and running back Christian McCaffrey reveal the team’s growing confidence in Purdy, who led San Francisco to the NFC Championship Game in his debut season. NFL legends Joe Montana and Steve Young also appear, offering praise for Purdy’s composure and drawing parallels to their own storied careers with the 49ers.
Beyond the gridiron, THE UNDERDOG delves into Purdy’s personal life, offering a refreshing glimpse into his grounded lifestyle. Raised in a tight-knit family, Purdy’s Christian faith and values are recurring themes, explored through heartfelt interviews with his parents, Shawn and Carrie, and his siblings. The series highlights his relationship with his wife, Madison, whom he married in 2024, and their journey into parenthood with the birth of their first child.
These moments are portrayed with authenticity, showing Purdy balancing the demands of NFL stardom with his commitment to family and community. Scenes of him mentoring young athletes in Arizona and engaging in charitable work underscore his humility, a quality that resonates with fans and teammates alike.
The documentary’s production quality is a standout, with NFL Films delivering cinematic visuals that elevate the storytelling. Slow-motion shots of Purdy’s precise passes and sideline interactions are paired with a stirring soundtrack, creating an emotional connection to his journey. Behind-the-scenes access, including strategy sessions with 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan, provides a rare look at the preparation that fueled Purdy’s success.
The series also addresses challenges, such as the elbow injury that sidelined him during the 2023 NFC Championship Game, and his triumphant return in 2024, leading the 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance.
THE UNDERDOG doesn’t shy away from broader themes, such as the pressure of being a young quarterback in a high-stakes franchise and the scrutiny that comes with defying expectations. Commentary from sports analysts and former players contextualizes Purdy’s impact on the NFL, particularly how his success challenges traditional notions of draft pedigree.
The series also touches on his role as an inspiration for underdog athletes, with fans sharing stories of how Purdy’s perseverance motivated them.
As of June 10, 2025, THE UNDERDOG has garnered widespread acclaim on platforms like X, where fans praise its emotional depth and Purdy’s relatability. The series is available to stream on Netflix, grok.com, and the X app, with voice mode accessible on the Grok iOS and Android apps for an immersive experience. For those seeking more, Netflix hints at potential bonus content, including extended interviews, on its official site.
THE UNDERDOG is more than a sports documentary—it’s a testament to grit, faith, and the power of defying the odds. Brock Purdy’s story, as told through this compelling series, is poised to inspire audiences far beyond the football field, cementing his legacy as one of the NFL’s most unlikely heroes.
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