The quarterback situation in the San Francisco 49ers appeared to have found some stability after the Aaron Rodgers saga. However, the 49ers camp has reignited concerns for Trey Lance fans, as teams are now inquiring about his availability amid expectations of Brock Purdy taking over as the team’s starter.
In his limited playing time, Lance showed promise, but Purdy’s performance has prompted questions regarding Lance’s role. It’s uncertain what the 49ers might get in exchange for Lance given the value of previous transactions involving rookie quarterbacks. The team’s next move in the ongoing quarterback saga is keenly anticipated by the crowd.
Lance’s Rollercoaster Ride with the 49ers after Aaron Rodgers Saga
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History repeats itself for the San Francisco 49ers as they find themselves embroiled in quarterback trade rumors for the second consecutive offseason. While they chose to keep Jimmy Garoppolo last year and reaped the rewards, the situation with Trey Lance seems to be evolving in a contrasting manner this year.
Reports from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport have revealed that teams have inquired about the availability of Lance, with the belief that Brock Purdy will be the 49ers’ starter. Ian Rapoport stated,
“The #49ers have received inquiries from several teams looking into a potential trade for former No. 3 pick QB Trey Lance. The conversations have been the result of SF fielding the calls, not making them, with teams aware that Brock Purdy is likely the future starter.”
Sources: The #49ers have received inquiries from several teams looking into a potential trade for former No. 3 pick QB Trey Lance. The conversations have been the result of SF fielding the calls, not making them, with teams aware that Brock Purdy is likely the future starter. pic.twitter.com/ddOZjZq5Xn
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 19, 2023
In the thirteenth week of the previous season, Purdy replaced Garoppolo and guided the team to the NFC Championship Game. In March, he underwent a triumphant surgery on his elbow. As a result, head coach Kyle Shanahan has indicated that Lance and newly-signed quarterback Sam Darnold will split first-team reps while Purdy recovers, with the possibility of Lance regaining the starting position.
Kyle Shanahan said that he expects Trey Lance and Sam Darnold to both take first-team reps this offseason while Brock Purdy is out
— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) March 28, 2023
If the 49ers do decide to trade Lance, it’s important to consider the potential market value based on previous deals involving rookie quarterbacks.
Trading the Future: Potential Deals for Trey Lance and the 49ers
Lance’s potential was demonstrated in just 8 games. Leaving no doubt on his abilities, he amassed 797 passing yards, 5 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions, as well as 235 rushing yards and a touchdown. However, the 49ers saw Purdy outperform Lance in their small sample sizes, which may have influenced the recent trade inquiries for the young quarterback.
In 2019, two draft picks were exchanged in a deal in which the Arizona Cardinals traded away Josh Rosen. For the Cardinals, Josh Rosen was their top pick to the Miami Dolphins in the 2018 draft. Rosen’s disappointing rookie season led the Cardinals to select Kyler Murray as the top overall pick in the 2019 draft. In 2021, the Carolina Panthers acquired Darnold, who was the third overall pick for the New York Jets. The Jets received a sixth-round pick as part of the deal. They were also given second and fourth-round picks in the forthcoming 2022 draft. Darnold had his ups and downs with the Jets, leading to the trade.
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Given the mixed results of previous trades involving former first-round quarterbacks, it may be challenging for the 49ers to land a high-value pick for Lance. Additionally, Lance’s limited playing time since his final year at North Dakota State in 2020 may also impact his trade value. Considering these factors, we’ve put together five potential trade packages that interested teams could offer the 49ers for Lance.
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Speculation around Trey Lance’s future with the San Francisco 49ers continues to build during this offseason, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the team’s next move in the ongoing quarterback saga.
Watch this story: Viral Video Sparks Controversy As Patrick Mahomes Works Out With Injured 49ers QB Amid Purdy Shocker