The San Francisco 49ers made a bold move in the 2021 NFL Draft when they traded up to the third overall pick to select quarterback Trey Lance. The move cost them a hefty price, as they gave up two future first-round picks, a third-round pick, and a 2022 third-round pick to move up nine spots.
The move was seen as a gamble, as Lance had only played one full season of college football and had limited experience against top-tier competition. Despite the risk, the 49ers were willing to pay the price in order to get their man.
Unfortunately, the gamble has not paid off for San Francisco. Lance has yet to take a snap in the NFL, and the team has struggled in the early part of the season. The 49ers are currently 1-3 and have been outscored by a combined score of 90-45.
The team’s struggles have been compounded by the fact that Lance is not ready to start at quarterback. He has yet to be active for a game, and it appears that he will not be ready to take the field until at least midseason.
Despite the disappointment of the high draft price failing to deliver immediate results, the 49ers’ future remains intact. The team still has a talented roster, and they have enough cap space to make moves in free agency.
The team also has the luxury of having Lance develop behind veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. Garoppolo has been solid this season, and he can help mentor Lance as he learns the NFL game.
Ultimately, it is too early to judge the 49ers’ decision to trade up for Trey Lance. The team may still reap the rewards of their gamble in the future, but for now, they are stuck with a high draft price that has yet to deliver results.
