49ers roster: 6 players who could be gone after 2021

No. 1: 49ers Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo

Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo‘s inability to stay on the field was the prime reason the 49ers traded up to the No. 3 overall pick in the draft to select North Dakota State quarterback Trey Lance.

But Lance also possesses a higher raw skill set than Garoppolo, too, boasting a stronger arm and significantly better mobility and speed.

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Lance isn’t ready to start just yet, and it wouldn’t be shocking at all to see the rookie develop for a full year on the bench before the Niners’ likely plan is put into action: starting Lance in 2022.

That means Jimmy G’s job is safe for now. And even if Kyle Shanahan decides Lance can give San Francisco just as good a shot at winning as Garoppolo sooner, then electing to make a change under center, Garoppolo could still be retained as a starting-caliber backup late in the season.

Once 2022 rolls around, however, the 49ers’ goal would be to move on from him.

Doing so would save a massive chunk of change, a savings of $25.6 million out of the total $27 million he’s due next season.

While the Niners aren’t necessarily in a situation where they have to do this, all signs are pointing to Garoppolo playing elsewhere next season anyway, and San Francisco will be eager to make the transition to Lance at the best possible moment.