In a revealing interview with NBC Sports' Peter King, San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan disclosed the team's serious interest in pursuing future Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady last offseason. The discussion about Brady's potential role in the team was prompted by rookie quarterback Brock Purdy's elbow injury during the NFC Championship game against the Eagles in January 2023.

Shanahan expressed concerns about the availability of Purdy for the start of the 2023 season, especially considering his surgery following the injury. With Purdy sidelined, the 49ers explored the possibility of signing the retired Brady, who hails from California, to lead the team for one season. Shanahan assured Purdy that he was still the team's long-term quarterback, but acknowledged the appeal of learning from Brady.

Fortunately for Purdy, he recovered in time to start the season opener against the Steelers, resulting in a dominant 30-7 victory for the 49ers. Shanahan emphasized that the pursuit of Brady would not have been considered if Purdy had not suffered the injury.

The 49ers, led by Purdy's impressive performance, finished the regular season with a record of 12-5 and secured their spot in Super Bowl 2024 with a thrilling come-from-behind 34-31 victory over the Lions in the NFC Championship game on January 28.

Reflecting on the conversation with Shanahan, Purdy expressed his gratitude for the coach's honesty and support. Although the idea of Brady joining the team initially raised some doubts for Purdy, he used it as motivation to prove himself and lead the 49ers to the ultimate stage.

As Sunday's Super Bowl approaches, Purdy and the 49ers are now focused on their matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Meanwhile, Brady officially retired last February after a remarkable 23-year career with the Buccaneers and the Patriots. While he briefly hinted at a potential return in May, Brady is now preparing for a new venture as Fox's lead NFL analyst, which is set to commence in the fall.

The exciting clash between the 49ers and the Chiefs promises to be a thrilling showdown on football's grandest stage, highlighting the narratives of Purdy's emergence and the almost-reunion with the legendary Tom Brady.