Trey Lance, the former No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft, has been relegated to the third-string quarterback spot by the San Francisco 49ers, according to multiple reports.
Lance, who played only one game in his final college season at North Dakota State due to the COVID-19 pandemic, has struggled to adjust to the NFL level and has been outperformed by veteran Sam Darnold and second-year starter Brock Purdy in training camp and preseason games.
Darnold, who was acquired from the New York Jets in a trade this offseason, was named the backup quarterback behind Purdy, who led the 49ers to a 13-3 record and a Super Bowl appearance last season after recovering from a UCL surgery.
Lance, who has two years left on his rookie contract plus a fifth-year team option, has shown flashes of his potential with his strong arm and mobility, but has also been inconsistent with his accuracy, decision-making and mechanics.
In two preseason games, Lance completed 18 of 32 passes for 234 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. He also ran for 46 yards on seven carries.
The 49ers are reportedly “exploring all options” with Lance, including trading him to another team that could offer him more playing time and development opportunities. The Minnesota Vikings, Lance’s home state team, have been mentioned as a possible suitor by several NFL insiders.
Lance’s demotion has sparked criticism from some NFL fans and analysts, who questioned the 49ers’ decision to trade up from No. 12 to No. 3 in the draft to select him over other highly touted quarterbacks such as Justin Fields and Mac Jones.
