Brock Purdy ‘excited’ to play with Keenan Allen as 49ers prepare for Cowboys

Brock Purdy has spent the week getting acquainted with Keenan Allen on the practice field.

The veteran receiver joined the 49ers this week in a trade-deadline deal with Indianapolis, and Purdy said their early work together has gone smoothly ahead of San Francisco’s Sunday game against Dallas.

“He’s been around the block and understands what the routes are and where he needs to be,” Purdy said. “He’s got really good hands and good feet, creates some really good separation.”

Purdy said Allen has picked up the offense quickly, despite the challenge of joining a new team and practicing almost immediately.

He credited receivers coaches Leonard Hankerson and Andrew Hayes-Stoker with giving Allen extra meeting time, and said Allen has been focused on learning the system.

“He’s where he needs to be and shows his hands, shows his speed and his change of direction,” Purdy said. “He looks great.”

Keenan Allen #10 of the Indianapolis Colts reacts after a first down during the third quarter against the Tennessee Titans during the second quarter at Lucas Oil Stadium on October 18, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

More on Brock Purdy & Keenan Allen

How much Allen plays Sunday will be up to head coach Kyle Shanahan, Purdy said. Still, the quarterback is looking forward to taking the field with him.

The matchup will test a Cowboys defense that ranks among the league’s statistical laggards. Brock Purdy said he doesn’t put much stock in the numbers, preferring to judge a defense by watching the film.

“I see a team that has a good squad across the board, and they can make you pay,” he said, pointing to Dallas’ effort, playmakers and ability to put quarterbacks in difficult situations. Purdy said he’s studying Shanahan’s game plan and wants to be precise with his preparation.

San Francisco has been effective in the red zone this season. Brock Purdy credited the run game for helping the offense stay ahead of the chains and create manageable situations near the goal line.

That balance, along with plays that get him moving and the ball out quickly, has helped the 49ers finish drives with touchdowns.

Purdy said he’ll keep working through his reads in the condensed field, while staying ready to make a play if the opportunity to scramble comes. He also discussed the team’s recent fourth-and-one sneak that came up short, saying the defense shot the gaps well and made it difficult to find space.

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 27: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers prepares to take a snap during the third quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Levi’s Stadium on October 27, 2024 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)

The quarterback’s confidence in the pocket is rooted in continuity. Four of San Francisco’s five offensive linemen have played together for at least three years, and Purdy said their communication and shared understanding of Shanahan’s offense give him consistency.

Brock Purdy is also looking forward to playing at Dallas’ stadium for the first time.

He’ll check the play clock and down-and-distance markers, and account for the dome environment. But the history between the 49ers and Cowboys is part of the draw.

“I’m extremely excited to go there on the road and play and feel that energy of the game,” Purdy said.

More 49ers content from Sactown Sports

• Did the 49ers do enough at the trade deadline?
• What Keenan Allen brings to the 49ers’ WR room
• Could the 49ers look to unite the Bosa brothers?
• Should the 49ers rest Mike Evans for the playoffs?

Upcoming San Francisco 49ers 2026 Schedule

• Sunday, November 15th – @ Dallas Cowboys – 1:25 pm PT
• Sunday, November 22nd – vs. Minnesota Vikings (Mexico City) – 5:20 pm PT
• Sunday, November 29th – vs. Seattle Seahawks – 1:25 pm PT
• Sunday, December 6th – @ New York Giants – 10:00 am PT
• Sunday, December 13th – vs. Los Angeles Rams – 1:25 pm PT

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