Since the beginning of the offseason, it's been evident that the San Francisco 49ers have attempted to move on from veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, who's been the epitome of inconsistency since his tenure began with the team.
Despite reaching the NFC Championship Game twice in the past three years, the 49ers seem content going in a different direction
Why? Because of the potential of rookie quarterback Trey Lance, whom the team selected third overall last year.
Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch have maintained their stance that they're impressed by Lance, who possesses a unique combination of arm strength and athleticism at the quarterback position.
Ahead of the 2022 NFL Draft, Lynch re-affirmed that statement in his pre-draft press conference, adding that while the team believes in competition, the 49ers are ready to see what Trey Lance brings to the table.
Lynch was asked about an offseason report that the 49ers have indicated to Lance that he is their starter in 2022.
"All these reports, I don't know where they come from," Lynch said. "But we always believe in competition. I think, though, at the same time, we are great believers in what Trey Lance brings to the table. We believe he's ready. He's going to have to show that. And I think he's ready to show that to us, show that to his teammates, show that to the world. So we're excited for that opportunity that he has."
Earlier on Monday, Lance was heavily praised by tight end George Kittle, who believes that the 21-year old quarterback has an "insane ceiling" ahead of his first season as the likely starter.
Lance, who started two games for the 49ers last season, ended the year with 603 passing yards, five touchdowns and two interceptions, as well as 168 yards on the ground and a rushing touchdown.