Trey Lance, born on May 9, 2000, in Marshall, Minnesota, is an American professional football quarterback. He played college football for the North Dakota State Bison, earning the Walter Payton and Jerry Rice Awards as a freshman and leading the team to the 2020 NCAA Division I Football Championship.
In the 2021 NFL Draft, Lance was selected third overall by the San Francisco 49ers. However, his tenure with the team was marred by limited playtime and injuries. After two seasons, he was traded to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a fourth-round pick.
Lance’s time with the Cowboys was similarly challenging. He made a single start in the 2024 regular-season finale against the Washington Commanders, completing 20 of 34 passes for 244 yards. Despite his efforts, the Cowboys lost 23-19, and Lance’s performance was a mixed bag, leading to further scrutiny about his potential in the league.
As of March 2025, Lance is a free agent, and his future in the NFL remains uncertain. The Dallas Cowboys have not extended a new contract, making him eligible to sign with any team.
Reports suggest that several teams are considering him as a backup quarterback, aiming to revitalize his career.
The San Francisco 49ers, who originally drafted Lance, recently signed quarterback Mac Jones to a two-year, $7 million contract, including $5 million guaranteed. Jones will serve as the primary backup to Brock Purdy. This move highlights the 49ers’ ongoing efforts to solidify their quarterback lineup, especially considering their past investment in Lance.
Lance’s journey reflects the unpredictable nature of professional sports, where early promise can be overshadowed by unforeseen challenges. As he explores new opportunities, teams and fans alike will be watching to see if he can overcome past setbacks and fulfill his potential.