Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh is optimistic about backup quarterback Trey Lance's potential for a career resurgence. Drafted as the No. 3 overall pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2021, Lance was initially expected to lead the franchise but lost his starting position to Brock Purdy. Since then, he has served as a backup for the Dallas Cowboys and the Chargers. Harbaugh believes Lance can follow a path similar to that of Sam Darnold, who also faced early career challenges but ultimately became a Super Bowl champion with the Seattle Seahawks in 2025. Harbaugh noted Lance's age, stating, “That’s the fat part of the bat right there for a quarterback,” and expressed excitement about Lance's continued development. In his limited appearances, including a start against the Denver Broncos, Lance threw for 226 yards and added 85 rushing yards.