Ex-49ers QB throws 5 interceptions in humiliating preseason performance
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Trey Lance is facing tough times. Drafted by the 49ers as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Lance may have reached a new low with his five-interception showing in Saturday’s preseason game.
Before Saturday, Lance had respectable preseason numbers—completing 40 of 64 passes with one touchdown and no interceptions. While not outstanding, he was proving to be a solid backup and easing concerns about his training camp struggles. However, things took a turn when he threw five interceptions in the Cowboys’ preseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Despite this, he also completed 33 of 49 passes for 323 yards, threw a touchdown on an impressive pass, and even had an electrifying 46-yard rushing touchdown that showcased his speed and athleticism, which initially excited Niners fans when he was drafted.
Though not a complete disaster, five interceptions are significant, even in a preseason game. One of them led to a pick-six on a poorly thrown ball, a mistake Niners fans had seen before from Lance.
This game highlighted the duality of Lance’s potential—his undeniable talent and raw ability contrasted with the inexperience and lack of polish due to limited playing time since entering the NFL.
It remains unclear where Lance will get the necessary reps. With Dak Prescott and Cooper Rush ahead of him on the Cowboys’ depth chart, and his uneven preseason performance unlikely to spark trade interest, his opportunity might only come if injuries arise.
Meanwhile, Niners fans are relieved to have Brock Purdy as their quarterback. Purdy looked solid in the 49ers’ preseason finale against the Las Vegas Raiders, and he seems poised to build on his strong 2023 season.
Lance’s five-interception game doesn’t mark the end of his NFL career, but it adds another chapter to his unconventional journey, which, at this point, seems to be steering toward a potential bust.