The San Francisco 49ers have no reason for regret with how recent quarterback decisions have played out. Brock Purdy has given the franchise every reason for confidence that San Francisco has the position solidified for years to come. However, it is hard not to pay attention to the impressive preseason debut of Trey Lance.
Even in a meaningless game, the talent and reasons why the 49ers believed the quarterback to be a future answer are clear. Purdy is the quarterback of the future, but there is a small piece of 49ers' fans that can't help but wonder what might've been if not for Lance's injury, opening the door to a change.
Lance debuted with the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday night in the preseason action of the season. The quarterback passed for 120 yards and added two touchdowns in what was a reminder of all the reasons why he was believed to be San Francisco's future. After spending a year in Dallas backing up Cooper Rush, the current Charger is competing with veteran Taylor Heinicke to sit behind Justin Herbert. If this game is any indication, Heinicke's seat is quickly growing warm.
Former 49ers Quarterback Trey Lance Shines in Debut with New Team
Lance flashed an incredible arm and showed confidence he has lacked while playing the position. Much of this is simply due to a lack of reps. It was well-covered while Lance was in San Francisco, just how few starts the quarterback had in college. Fast forward to San Francisco, and the moment he is handed the starting job, a season-ending injury is suffered that forces the quarterback into a backup role. The same spot he would find himself after landing with the Cowboys.
While the role with the Chargers is no different, this is the most we've seen Lance on a football field in quite some time. It was a full display of all the reasons he was believed to be a franchise quarterback. Even against fringe roster pieces, it was impressive enough to wonder if a starting job could still be in his future. With only a one-year deal, the backup could become a possible bridge option if the rest of the preseason is this impressive.
Adding to the solid night is the fact that the backup and fringe receivers Lance was given were all fed. No pass catcher had more than two catches, with Lance consistently spreading the ball around all over the field. It is impossible not to be impressed even in preseason, and a small part of 49ers fans has to wonder what could've been.