Jimmy Garoppolo: 3 reasons 49ers QB starts for all of 2021

No. 2: Jimmy Garoppolo still has tangible traits above Trey Lance

Yes, Trey Lance has started just one game since 2019 and was only a full-time starter for one year before that at North Dakota State. And, yes. Jimmy Garoppolo cemented himself as a starter in San Francisco despite missing the bulk of 2018 and 2020 with injuries.

While Garoppolo may never have the arm strength and mobility skills Lance possesses, there are other areas in which the veteran is far superior than the rookie.

Case in point, Jimmy G’s quick release, which can be observed in the OTA video below:

Again, these are mere warmup drills, and it’s premature to think this will play a key factor in determining either quarterback’s immediate future.

Then again, it’s important to have that kind of ability, especially facing top-level NFL pass-rushers.

Related Story: Trey Lance won’t beat out Jimmy Garoppolo right away

One of the things to quantify here is the fact Lance has attempted only 318 pass attempts over his collegiate career, while Jimmy G attempted nearly that many in his 2019 regular-season campaign alone.

So it’s likely the 49ers will want to work with Lance to improve his technique a bit, cutting down on that time to throw and his release efforts, which helps ensure Garoppolo sticks around a bit longer that some may anticipate.