After the stunning start to his pro career, NFL defenders will be lining up to prove they can stop Brock Purdy, and first in line is one of the best cornerbacks of the modern era in the 49ers' season opener against the Steelers.

San Francisco's trip to Pittsburgh represents an extremely tough start to the season on the road for the 49ers, who will face a Pittsburgh defense that is blessed with several elite talents.

Patrick Peterson may not be seen as such a talent at this point in his career, but he is backing himself to mark his Steelers debut by pouncing on a Purdy error.

Per Pro Football Talk, Peterson told the 'All Things Covered' podcast: "There is some tell signs out there that tells us what plays we're gonna get from those guys in certain situations. When I get my pick Sunday, we'll talk about it."

In response, Purdy expressed nothing but respect for the eight-time Pro Bowler Peterson.

"I mean, I don't really know what to say about that," Purdy told a press conference on Thursday. 

"I mean, he's a good player. Patrick Peterson's a great player. I grew up watching him and everything. I was obviously from Arizona, he played for the Cardinals and stuff. So yeah, it's the competitive nature, I guess, of football, so we'll see."

Purdy tossed only four picks as a rookie, but he will need to be smart with the football when targeting Peterson, who last season with the Vikings enjoyed something of a bounce-back campaign that saw him record five interceptions.

Yet the Steelers' numbers from last season indicate Purdy could find plenty of joy. In 2022, the Pittsburgh defense ranked 25th by dropback Expected Points Added per play and 17th by dropback Success Rate.

Pittsburgh will obviously be looking to make big strides in 2023 but, operating an offense that does an excellent job of putting playmakers in space, Purdy should have plenty of opportunities to let his play do the talking in his matchup with Peterson and the Steelers.

49ers second injury report for Week 1 clash with Steelers

There was a prominent new name on Thursday’s report.

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