49ers training camp 2021: 4 rookies who have impressed the most

49ers Rookie No. 1: Quarterback Trey Lance

By this point, you’ve probably read enough about rookie quarterback Trey Lance, the No. 3 overall pick from this year’s NFL Draft.

Signs are pointing to him actually beating out veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo for the rights to start this season. And even if Kyle Shanahan elects to stick with Jimmy G early on, the fact Lance has closed the gap so quickly when many an analyst and fan thought year one would merely be a Lance development season says a lot.

San Francisco 49ers

Simply put, Lance is ascending quicker than most anticipated.

Lance has already demonstrated his dual-threat abilities, part of the allure of him in the first place as a fast-yet-physical rushing passer. His rocket-like arm has also uncorked some serious throws, too, only adding to his prowess and giving him multiple dimensions Garoppolo simply doesn’t have.

But perhaps the most impressive element, at least in terms of his mental development, is how Lance is beginning to command the offense. At least according to offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, who told reporters the following:

"He’s getting to the point where he can correct other players, which from a coach’s perspective is all you’re looking for. You want a coach on the field. The person that a receiver is going to listen to, much more than a coach, is the guy that’s throwing him the ball."

The one aspect Lance needed to demonstrate at some point was taking command of the offense. It was the one advantage Garoppolo had over Lance from day one.

Looks like that aspect is closer than anticipated, too.