That never came to fruition as Jimmy Garoppolo held off Trey Lance throughout the season. Lance started just two games and battled injuries over the course of the campaign.
Lance’s injuries and body of work are a concern entering 2022, as the 49ers are trying to find a trade for Garoppolo. One person who’s especially anxious about the situation is ESPN analyst Booger McFarland. McFarland shared his thoughts on the young quarterback on Monday’s episode of NFL Live, saying that he is the most concerened about Lance.
McFarland is correct in saying Lance has no choice but to be ready. Garoppolo is good as gone, and the 49ers traded two first-round picks to get Lance at No. 3.
Lance’s light 224-pound frame and playing style make him a greater injury risk. McFarland also pointed out that Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch’s jobs could be in jeopardy if Lance doesn’t deliver results in 2022.
Trey Lance has high expectations on his shoulders
It feels premature to say that 2022 is a make-or-break season for Lance. But patience is notoriously thin at the NFL-level when it comes to winning, especially when you have a roster as stacked as the 49ers possess.
Lance showed promising signs as a rookie, as NFL analyst Brian Baldinger pointed out in his film study. On quick passes and plays where he relies on his mobility, Lance looks capable of being a competent starting quarterback.
However, as Baldinger noted, Lance has some mechanical issues. This can be resolved with more reps and proper coaching.
It’s equally important to remember the 49ers quarterback is just 21 years old. Taking your team to the Super Bowl at 21 is a daunting task, but that’s what the 49ers will be demanding of him.
Time will tell whether Lance can show the necessary development to be the 49ers’ long term answer under center. Then again, this conversation could all be for nothing if one Tom Brady decides to unretire.
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