"It's full speed ahead for the Trey Lance era in San Francisco," wrote Hanzus. "There's likely to be some turbulence for a young passer with limited experience, but Lance has been set up for success after a rookie season spent mostly on the sidelines."
Lance started just two games last season but has been the undisputed starter for the entire offseason. San Francisco invested a lot in the 22-year-old quarterback, surrendering multiple first-round picks and more to move up and select him at No. 3 overall last year.
The team's starter of the past four-and-a-half seasons, Jimmy Garoppolo, is on his way out. The 49ers hope to trade the veteran quarterback ahead of Week 1. If no suitors come calling, a release is a possibility.
The quarterback situation hasn't been the only offseason drama on which the media has focused. In April, star wide receiver Deebo Samuel requested to be traded after contract extension discussions weren't going smoothly. That drama ended when San Francisco signed him to a three-year extension just over a week ago. That gives the young Lance a lot of offensive firepower this season.
"The Deebo Samuel drama was put to bed with a big contract extension," Hanzus continued, "while Brandon Aiyuk appears primed to make the leap as the No. 2 wide receiver. Throw in a do-everything Pro Bowler at tight end in George Kittle, a versatile backfield led by Elijah Mitchell, and, of course, arguably the league's best play caller in Kyle Shanahan, and Lance will have no excuse if he doesn't pop in his first year leading the offense."
The three teams ranked ahead of the 49ers in Hanzus' power rankings are the Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Rams, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. San Francisco leaped the defending AFC champion Cincinnati Bengals, who dropped to No. 5 on the list.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
Is Mike Evans or Alec Pierce the better move for the 49ers?
Roster construction in the NFL is rarely about simply finding talent, although that is the most important aspect. It's also about timing and, more importantly, juggling the financial implications. For the San Francisco 49ers, the question at wide receiver is not just who can... -
49ers Draft Watch: Day 3 NFL Combine Risers and Fallers Shake Up Offensive Rankings
Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine featured quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers — and speed dominated the conversation inside Lucas Oil Stadium. Several prospects elevated their draft stock with elite athletic testing, while others failed to separate... -
PFF names 49ers' best-case scenario in Round 1 of 2026 NFL Draft
With the NFL Scouting Combine in the books, mock drafts continue to shape narratives ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. The San Francisco 49ers, who have multiple offseason needs, are already being linked to several first-round possibilities. John Kosko of Pro Football Focus (PFF)... -
49ers NFL Combine Watch: Offensive Line Risers and Fallers Shake Up Draft Boards
Day 4 of the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine belonged to the big men in the trenches, and several offensive linemen used the spotlight to shift their draft stock dramatically. For teams like the San Francisco 49ers — who continue searching for long-term stability along the...