Brock Purdy presents unique pass protection challenge for the Rams defense

The Los Angeles Rams open their season facing a specific defensive challenge against San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy. Despite the addition of Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald to the Los Angeles defensive front, analysts note that Purdy presents a difficult matchup due to his low pressure-to-sack ratio and tendency to hold the ball. During the 2025 season, Purdy maintained a 9.0% pressure-to-sack rate while averaging 3.23 seconds to throw. Because Purdy has limited history against the Los Angeles defense, the unit faces an unfamiliar opponent in the season opener. Strategies for the Rams involve limiting deep passing opportunities and forcing San Francisco into third-and-long situations. The team aims to avoid allowing Purdy to play with a lead, which would allow the 49ers to dictate the tempo of the game through shorter, controlled offensive sets.

• 6:00 PMYahoo Sports — Why Brock Purdy is a unique challenge to Rams’ new defense