The San Francisco 49ers quarterback controversy dominated their narrative last season. It will dominate it even more in the offseason until the team firmly gets behind one of them.

Incumbent starter Jimmy Garoppolo led a 49ers offense that got them to the NFC Championship Game. But Trey Lance's potential could move the needle even further. The Niners are expected to trade Garoppolo and let Lance, the third overall pick from the 2021 draft, go to work with Deebo Samuel, George Kittle and the strong offensive unit.

49ers general manager John Lynch spoke about the situation. He explained that Garoppolo has several suitors and that the team is “loving” how Lance is developing. Even though he started just two games, Lynch said that he had an “outstanding” rookie campaign.

Article Continues Below
More San Francisco 49ers News
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) makes a catch against the Philadelphia Eagles during the third quarter at Lincoln Financial Field.
Christian McCaffrey welcomes Saquon Barkley to the running back Madden familyMatty Breisch ·
Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Bryce Huff (0) tackles Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) after a catch during the second quarter.
Eagles’ Bryce Huff trade to 49ers finalized with full pick conditions revealedJosh Davis ·
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) warms up before a game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium.
49ers’ Christian McCaffrey lacking ‘5th gear’ at OTAs draws concernAlex House ·
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill (10) signals from the line of scrimmage against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium.
NFL rumors: Bills, 49ers among contenders that should seek Tyreek Hill tradeJaren Kawada ·
Sep 16, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Bryce Huff (0) against the Atlanta Falcons at Lincoln Financial Field. 49ers
Eagles legend Brandon Graham explains Bryce Huff flop after 49ers tradeChristopher Hennessy ·
49ers coach Kyle Shanahan (center) with 49ers center Drake Nugent (left) and Oregon running back Jordan James (right)
3 San Francisco 49ers hidden gems on 2025 roster you need to knowJaren Kawada ·

Garoppolo's poor postseason performance and shoulder surgery could impact his trade value. Still, the 49ers' veteran QB should be able to land on a team in need of a sturdy quarterback. Teams will likely value his ability to contribute to winning teams, even though he wasn't always the main reason for their success.

Since the 49ers have a strong defense and plenty of talented offensive weapons, Lance should be able to steer the team back into the playoffs after their shocking run to the conference championship game. His game is much more dynamic than Garoppolo's and he has the potential to grow into the team's franchise player.

The 49ers went 10-7 last season and could improve this season if Lance continues his development. The phenomenal pass-catchers around him should make life very easy for him.