Biggest winners, losers from 49ers trade of Trey Lance to Cowboys

Loser: 49ers wide receiver Danny Gray

The Niners used a 2022 third-round draft pick on former SMU wide receiver Danny Gray, hoping his breakneck speed would provide the deep threat needed to help fully open up San Francisco's offense.

With Trey Lance under center, of course. After all, he was the lone quarterback on the 49ers roster who had the arm strength to hit Gray in stride on a go route down the field.

There were other factors at play, yes. But when Lance suffered a season-ending ankle injury in Week 2 last year, Gray's stock value plummeted and he finished his rookie campaign with just one catch for 10 yards on seven targets.

Gray is dealing with an injury to start his 2023 season, although multiple reports said he made exceptional strides from year one to improve his stock value.

But that stock was intended to be as one of Lance's preferred weapons, and that will no longer be the case.

At least not with the Niners.