Los Angeles, California – Quarterback Trey Lance has signed a one-year deal worth up to $6.2 million with the Los Angeles Chargers, as reported by sources on Friday. Lance will join Taylor Heinicke as a backup behind Chargers’ starter Justin Herbert.
Herbert, known for his durability, started 62 consecutive games at the beginning of his career before a right index finger fracture in Week 14 of 2023 ended his season. Despite playing through injuries, Herbert did not miss any games in 2024 but was often seen battling various injuries throughout the season.
Lance’s addition provides the Chargers with another capable backup option in case Herbert is sidelined due to injury, potentially leaving last season’s third-string quarterback Easton Stick without a spot on the team. Drafted as the No. 3 pick in 2021 by the San Francisco 49ers, Lance has had a rocky start to his career.
In his four seasons in the league, Lance started four games with the 49ers, posting a 2-2 record. His time in San Francisco was cut short by an ankle injury, leading to limited playing time and eventually a trade to the Dallas Cowboys in 2023. Despite only seeing spot duty in 2024, Lance showed promise in the regular-season finale against the Washington Commanders.
At just 24 years old, Lance is younger than many of his counterparts in the league, and former coach Mike McCarthy believes that he simply needs more experience to reach his full potential. With his deal with the Chargers, Lance now has the opportunity to continue his development and make an impact in the NFL.