Trey Lance’s NFL future is looking increasingly uncertain after a challenging season with the Dallas Cowboys, where he found himself relegated to the role of third-string quarterback. After being a highly touted prospect coming out of college, Lance’s journey has taken unexpected turns, leaving fans and analysts questioning what lies ahead for the young quarterback.
Limited Opportunities in Dallas
Lance’s time on the field this season was minimal, as he only appeared in four games for the Cowboys. His debut came late in the 2024 season, and he faced a tough challenge against the Washington Commanders. In that game, he passed for 244 yards without any touchdowns or interceptions. While it wasn’t a standout performance, it was a glimpse of potential that could intrigue teams looking for a quarterback during the upcoming free agency period.
A Promising Start Turned Sour
Coming out of college, Lance was a highly regarded prospect, demanding significant draft capital. The San Francisco 49ers made a bold move, trading up to the No. 3 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft to select him. In his only full season at North Dakota State in 2019, Lance threw for 2,786 yards, with 28 touchdowns and no interceptions, while also rushing for 1,100 yards and 14 touchdowns. Those impressive stats fueled high expectations, but his time in San Francisco was marred by injuries and limited playing time.
Struggles in San Francisco
Unfortunately, Lance’s tenure with the 49ers didn’t unfold as planned. Over two seasons, he managed to play in just eight games, passing for 797 yards, with five touchdowns and two interceptions. His rushing numbers were modest as well, totaling 235 yards and one touchdown. The emergence of Brock Purdy as a viable starter further complicated Lance’s situation, leading to his eventual trade to the Cowboys ahead of the 2023 season.
Fan Reactions and Future Prospects
As Lance prepares to enter free agency, opinions among NFL fans are divided. Some see promise in his recent performance, with one fan stating, "Nothing too flashy but this is the most normal and settled Trey Lance has ever looked in the NFL." Others, however, remain skeptical, pointing out that the 49ers’ decision to draft him may have been a misstep. "Brock Purdy being a viable starter really saved the entire Niners’ front office’s jobs. That Trey Lance pick was horrible," another fan remarked.
Despite the mixed reactions, it’s clear that Lance’s future in the NFL is uncertain. While he may not be viewed as a starting quarterback at this point, there is still hope for him to find a new team. "I see a lot of Giants fans saying we should bring in Justin Fields, but why not Trey Lance?" one fan suggested, highlighting the potential for a fresh start elsewhere.
What Lies Ahead for Trey Lance?
As the offseason approaches, the question remains: where will Trey Lance land next? While he may not secure a starting position, teams looking for depth at the quarterback position could take a chance on him. His contract with the Cowboys is nearing its end, and it’s likely that he will explore opportunities to continue his career in the NFL.
Lance’s journey has been filled with ups and downs, and while he may not have lived up to the lofty expectations set during his draft year, he still possesses the talent that made him a coveted prospect. The next chapter in his career will be crucial, as he seeks to prove that he can be a reliable quarterback in the league.
Final Thoughts
Trey Lance’s NFL story is a testament to the unpredictable nature of professional sports. From being a high-profile draft pick to struggling for playing time, his experience serves as a reminder that talent alone doesn’t guarantee success. As he heads into free agency, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where he lands and how he can revive his career. Will he find a new team willing to give him a chance? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the NFL is always full of surprises.
