The San Francisco 49ers in 2021 believed that Trey Lance from North Dakota State would be their franchise quarterback for many decades to come – that was not the case. Lance would only spend two seasons with the 49ers, compiling a 2-2 record and throwing for 797 yards, five touchdowns to three interceptions, with a 84.5 passer rating.

While the statistics are not horrible, the organization hit a slam dunk with Mr. Irrelevant Brock Purdy, who has since went on to become their franchise quarterback and most recently took the team to the Super Bowl, only to lose to the defending Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs 25-22.

Lance has since joined the Dallas Cowboys via a trade on August 26, 2023 in which the Cowboys gave the 49ers a 2024 fourth-round draft pick. He was slated to be the third-string quarterback for the 2023 NFL season behind veteran backup Cooper Rush. This season, however, will see Lance and Rush compete for the backup role to veteran quarterback Dak Prescott.

Most recently, Lance discussed his role and this upcoming season with reporters at the Dallas Cowboys facility. On the official Cowboys website, Lance mentioned his excitement and plans for this upcoming 2024 season.

When asked about his confidence as a player and within the offensive scheme, he responded with, “My confidence is much higher than it was when I got into the NFL, for sure. I kind of didn’t know what to expect. I think that’s probably most rookies, if not all of them at one point or another throughout that first year. I feel great about where I’m at. Continuing to get better, continuing to learn and continuing to be a better quarterback.”

One of the biggest knocks that reporters and analysts mentioned over the last several years is Lance’s motivation on and off the field. When an athlete is taken as the number three overall pick and is not playing, it could take a toll on that athlete and their emotions. Lance discussed how he has taken a step forward in that department and how it will help him this season and beyond.

“I think the biggest thing is I’ve learned a lot about myself and who I am on and off the field. This offseason, I’ve been at my best mentally, physically, spiritually knowing who I am, where I am and being able to be present.”

The 24-year-old quarterback will spend training camp competing with Cooper Rush, who is a 30-year-old undrafted athlete from Central Michigan. Rush has been a solid NFL backup when called upon. He has thrown for 1,619 total yards and eight touchdowns to five interceptions, an 83.6 passer rating.

For the Cowboys and their organization, Lance’s growth needs to be seen heading into year two within the Mike McCarthy offensive scheme. If he can improve his mechanics and football IQ, especially reading defensive coverages, he will be the backup quarterback due to athletic ability over Rush and how he is six years younger.

Honestly, if this growth happens, he will revive his NFL career with an opportunity to join another franchise as their starting quarterback within the next year or two.