The 49ers have quite the dilemma on their hands.
With 17 days to go until San Francisco’s season opener against the Steelers, second-year quarterback Brock Purdy appears entrenched as the starter. On Wednesday, news broke that former Jets and Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold will serve as Purdy’s backup.
That would leave Trey Lance—the No. 3 pick in the NFL draft out of North Dakota State two short years ago—in limbo, with reports suggesting the 49ers would try to trade him.
Appearing on KNBR-AM in the Bay Area, however, general manager John Lynch indicated that Lance will likely remain with San Francisco.
“The most likely option is that he’s here,” Lynch said, via Cam Inman of The Mercury News.
“The most likely option is that he’s here” — 49ers John Lynch (on KNBR) on Trey Lance this season
— Cam Inman (@CamInman) August 24, 2023
Won’t turn a blind eye to a trade that works for all
Lynch says not accurate that they’ve tried trading Lance all offseason
Says Lance is at 49ers HQ today, to play Friday as QB3
Lynch didn't rule out a potential deal involving Lance but pushed back on reports that the 49ers have spent the offseason trying to move him.
Lance has played just eight NFL games, completing 56-of-102 pass attempts for 797 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions.
San Francisco is set to face the Chargers at home Friday in its preseason finale.
