Trey Lance's NFL playing career will continue with him joining the Chargers, notably under one former 49ers head coach.
When the Dallas Cowboys announced they had no intention of re-signing quarterback Trey Lance this offseason, it wasn't hard to recognize the possibility of his NFL career being over.
After all, the former San Francisco 49ers' No. 3 overall draft pick had flamed out with two different teams over a four-year span, starting only five games and never coming close to living up to the hype that made him such an attractive prospect way back in 2021.
Lance wanted to go to a team that'd give him a chance to compete for a starting job. However, in light of the offseason quarterback market, few opportunities presented themselves. There was even a suggestion he might have to travel north of the border and join a CFL team to resurrect what has otherwise been a disappointing career.
Well, maybe not so much anymore.
Jim Harbaugh, Chargers to sign Trey Lance
Some could argue Lance merely needed both a coach and a team willing to be patient with him. After all, the onetime Niners hopeful was woefully inexperienced at the collegiate level and had numerous setbacks during his stint in the Bay Area.
Turns out, a San Francisco alumnus is willing to take that chance.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Los Angeles Chargers are inking Lance to a one-year deal:
ESPN sources: former Cowboys and 49ers QB Trey Lance reached agreement today on a one-year deal worth up to $6.2 million with the Los Angeles Chargers. Lance and Taylor Heinicke are now behind starting QB Justin Herbert. pic.twitter.com/CaOZiWMLPa
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 4, 2025
This means Lance will now be under the direct tutelage of the Bolts' head coach, Jim Harbaugh.
Harbaugh, of course, held that role with the 49ers from 2011 through 2014, leading the team to three consecutive NFC Championship games and a Super Bowl appearance. The high-profile head coach also helped resurrect the career of then-Niners quarterback Alex Smith while bring up Colin Kaepernick under center.
Jim Harbaugh is the perfect coach for Trey Lance
— Brad (@Graham_SFN) April 4, 2025
Paired with offensive coordinator Greg Roman, whose run-first offenses may actually play well into Lance's natural strengths, it's hard not to like the pairing.
True, Lance will be looking up at L.A.'s starter, Justin Herbert, on the depth chart. And it'll be difficult for Lance to fully surpass the likely No. 2 behind Herbert, Taylor Heinicke.
But, when considering the player fit with the coaching staff, it's hard not to like Lance's chances for turning his career around with Harbaugh leading the way.