NFL: New Orleans Saints at Los Angeles Chargers Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Chargers Ideal Trade Emerges After Strong Preseason Showing

Originally posted on LAFB Network | By Ryan Anderson | Last updated Aug 11, 2025 5:26 PM ET

NFL: New Orleans Saints at Los Angeles Chargers Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Chargers quarterback Trey Lance’s NFL journey has been a challenging one. Drafted third overall by the San Francisco 49ers in 2021, his early career was derailed by injuries and limited playing time, with Brock Purdy eventually taking the reins in San Francisco. After a trade to the Dallas Cowboys, where opportunities were scarce, Lance now finds himself with the Los Angeles Chargers—an environment that may be key to unlocking his trade value.

Despite being firmly behind Justin Herbert on the Chargers’ depth chart, Lance has made a compelling case for himself in the preseason. His poised performance in Los Angeles’s opener—going 9-for-12 with 97 yards and two touchdowns in just one half—has reignited league-wide interest. More refined than in his early days, Lance demonstrates improved decision-making and tactical awareness, traits that make him an attractive asset.

Head coach Jim Harbaugh, known for developing quarterbacks, has clearly helped Lance sharpen his skills. Yet with Herbert entrenched as the starter and carrying a hefty contract, Lance’s future as a long-term starter in Los Angeles appears limited. That reality positions Lance perfectly as a trade candidate for teams in need of a young, athletic quarterback with untapped potential.

Chargers Trade Partners For Trey Lance

Chargers Ideal Trade Emerges After Strong Preseason Showing 1 Jon Endow-Imagn Images

Got That Big Kick Energy?

Several NFL teams could find Lance appealing:

The New Orleans Saints have an uncertain quarterback room, with young players yet to prove themselves. Lance offers both insurance and upside.
The New York Jets, despite committing to Justin Fields, may value a backup with similar physical traits who can seamlessly step in if needed.
The Baltimore Ravens, led by Lamar Jackson, might see Lance as a complementary backup with similar athleticism.
The Arizona Cardinals face inconsistency issues with Kyler Murray, making Lance a sensible contingency.
The Cleveland Browns are testing out several quarterbacks. If none emerge, Lance could be the next.

From the Chargers’ perspective, Lance represents a valuable trade asset. His youth, draft pedigree, and glimpses of growth under Harbaugh’s guidance make him a promising option for teams seeking a quarterback with upside.

In a league where quarterback scarcity fuels trades and blockbuster deals, Trey Lance’s preseason resurgence has elevated his stock. While unlikely to supplant Herbert in L.A., he could soon be on the move—heading to a team ready to give him a shot as a starter and potentially reshaping the quarterback market in the process.

This article first appeared on LAFB Network and was syndicated with permission.

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