NFL teams are curious. Some have contacted the San Francisco 49ers to inquire about Trey Lance, the third-year quarterback who some have speculated might be on the trading block. While the Niners are always willing to listen to offers for anyone, they have never admitted to seeking to trade the former No. 3 overall pick.
According to Ian Rapoport, the 49ers are fielding calls, not making them. That makes sense considering the emergence of then-rookie Brock Purdy last season. Teams are doing their due diligence on the situation.
Sources: The #49ers have received inquiries from several teams looking into a potential trade for former No. 3 pick QB Trey Lance. The conversations have been the result of SF fielding the calls, not making them, with teams aware that Brock Purdy is likely the future starter. pic.twitter.com/ddOZjZq5Xn
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 19, 2023
Lance started last season as the starter but suffered a season-ending ankle injury during Week 2. That left Jimmy Garoppolo to take over at quarterback, and eventually, Purdy after Garoppolo sustained a broken foot.
Now fully recovered, Lance is expected to compete with Sam Darnold to be the Week 1 starter, assuming he remains on the roster and Purdy isn't fully cleared by then. Purdy's recovery is expected to last into September.
Lance has started just five games over the last three seasons, including his final collegiate season with North Dakota State.
"Everyone saw what Brock did (last season)," Lance said in February. "Brock doesn't just come in and play that well, and I just get handed something out of the blue. And I don't expect that or want that, but I truly believe, yeah, I just want an opportunity to compete. That's all I wanted going into this offseason."