49ers' Trey Lance reveals mindset amid career uncertainty

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Trey Lance seemingly has lost the starting job to 2022 rookie sensation Brock Purdy but is nevertheless remaining upbeat heading into his third pro season. 

"I’m in a great spot physically, mentally and just excited for this year," Lance recently told Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area while working out with teammate George Kittle at the latest edition of "Tight End University." 

Lance has just four starts and 102 passes on his career résumé. The 2021 first-round draft pick is working his way back from a campaign-ending ankle injury he suffered last September as Purdy recovers from surgery he had in March to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. It's expected that Purdy will be good to go for the 2023 season opener at the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sept. 10. 

As for Lance's future, ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported last month that "there was no trade market" for the 23-year-old this offseason. The 49ers lost three starting quarterbacks to injuries from last September through this year's NFC Championship Game and, thus, are expected to hold onto Lance through at least this coming January. 

"I like to play," Lance added. "That’s why I came here, so it’s definitely hard when I don’t get that opportunity, and last year was part of it. Just a bump in the road and I’ll be better for it." 

Lance completed just 54.9% of his 102 passes for 797 yards with five touchdowns and three interceptions. He's also rushed for 235 yards and a score on 54 attempts. 

Along with throwing to Kittle at "Tight End University," Lance watched some game film with the likes of Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce and retired tight end Greg Olsen. 

"Just hearing them talk in the meeting room," Lance explained about his experience. "Hearing Travis go through the freedom he has versus guys in different offenses. How they see the game, I think, is the biggest thing that I picked up." 

Lance is scheduled to compete with free-agency signing Sam Darnold for San Francisco's QB2 gig when the 49ers report for training camp on July 25. However, either Lance or Darnold could be called into action if Purdy encounters a setback before Week 1.