The Los Angeles Chargers have added a new face to their quarterback room, signing former San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Trey Lance to a one-year deal worth up to $6.2 million, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Tuesday. The move represents a calculated gamble for the Chargers, who are hoping to unlock the potential that made Lance the No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Lance's career has been turbulent since entering the league. After being drafted by the 49ers, he saw limited playing time due to injuries and inconsistent performance. He was eventually traded to the Dallas Cowboys in 2023, where he served as a backup and saw minimal action.
"We're excited to bring Trey into the fold," said a Chargers team spokesperson. "He's a talented young quarterback, and we believe he can contribute to our team. We're looking forward to working with him and seeing what he can do."
The Chargers' quarterback depth chart is currently led by Justin Herbert, the team's franchise quarterback. Lance will likely compete for the backup role, providing insurance behind Herbert, who has dealt with injuries in the past.
The financial details of the contract, with its "up to" designation, suggest that a significant portion of the $6.2 million is tied to performance-based incentives. This structure minimizes the risk for the Chargers while providing Lance with the opportunity to earn more based on his contributions to the team.
"This is a great opportunity for me," said Lance in a statement released through his agent. "I'm grateful to the Chargers organization for giving me a chance. I'm looking forward to working hard and contributing to the team's success."
Analysts are divided on the potential impact of the signing. Some believe that Lance has the talent to develop into a valuable asset for the Chargers, while others are skeptical given his struggles in San Francisco and Dallas.
"Trey Lance is a high-risk, high-reward player," said NFL analyst Mel Kiper Jr. "If the Chargers can unlock his potential, they could have a steal on their hands. But it's also possible that he'll continue to struggle and never live up to the hype."
The Chargers will begin organized team activities (OTAs) in the coming weeks, providing Lance with his first opportunity to work with his new teammates and coaches. The team's performance throughout the offseason and training camp will ultimately determine Lance's role in the Chargers' offense this season. The Chargers are hoping that a change of scenery and a fresh start can help Lance finally realize the potential that made him one of the most highly touted prospects in recent memory.
