LOS ANGELES, CA – Quarterback Trey Lance will return to the Los Angeles Chargers for the 2026 NFL season, the team announced Saturday. The move brings Lance back to a familiar situation as he seeks to solidify his NFL career.
According to reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the deal is a one-year contract worth up to $6.75 million. This provides Lance with another opportunity to develop and compete in a quarterback room that already includes Justin Herbert.
Lance’s journey to this point has been marked by both high expectations and significant challenges. Originally selected third overall in the 2021 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers, the North Dakota State product has struggled to find consistent playing time and stay healthy. He started just four games across two seasons with the 49ers, posting a 2-2 record with 797 passing yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions. A significant ankle injury ultimately derailed his progress in San Francisco, paving the way for Brock Purdy’s emergence as the 49ers’ franchise quarterback.
The Chargers initially signed Lance during the 2025 offseason, but his playing time was limited. He made one start in the team’s season finale against the Denver Broncos, completing 20 of 44 passes for 146 yards and one interception. The game served primarily as an opportunity for evaluation with most starters resting.
Prior to his return to Los Angeles, Lance spent the 2023 and 2024 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys. Acquired by Dallas for a fourth-round draft pick, he didn’t see any regular season action in 2023. In 2024, he started the regular season finale against the Washington Commanders, completing 20 of 34 passes for 244 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions, adding 26 rushing yards on six carries in a close 23-19 loss.
Throughout his career, Lance has been viewed as a player with considerable potential, but one who requires development. He played only 19 games during his collegiate career at North Dakota State, showcasing flashes of brilliance but lacking the extensive in-game experience typically associated with top draft picks. His arm talent and athleticism remain intriguing qualities for NFL teams.
At 25 years old, Lance faces a critical juncture in his career. Returning to the Chargers offers him a degree of familiarity with the coaching staff and offensive system. Whereas Herbert remains firmly entrenched as the starter, Lance will compete for the backup role, aiming to prove his worth and potentially carve out a more significant role in the future. The Chargers’ quarterback room now features a mix of experience and potential, creating a competitive environment during training camp and throughout the season.
The Chargers will be looking for Lance to provide stability and depth behind Herbert as they navigate a challenging AFC West division. The team’s success in 2026 will depend heavily on Herbert’s continued performance, but having a capable backup quarterback is crucial for any team with Super Bowl aspirations. Lance’s ability to learn quickly and contribute in a limited role could be a valuable asset for the Chargers.
The NFL landscape is constantly evolving, and opportunities for quarterbacks can emerge unexpectedly. Lance’s return to the Chargers represents a chance for him to reignite his career and demonstrate the potential that once made him a highly sought-after prospect. The upcoming season will be a pivotal one for Lance as he strives to establish himself as a reliable NFL quarterback.
The Chargers open the 2026 season on September 13th against the Kansas City Chiefs at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:20 PM ET (5:20 PM PT). Lance will be competing with other quarterbacks on the roster for playing time throughout training camp and the preseason.
Fans can follow the Chargers’ training camp updates and preseason schedule on the team’s official website, www.chargers.com, and on their social media channels.
