Cowboys QB Trey Lance details how he has changed since 49ers stint

It appears current Dallas Cowboys quarterback Trey Lance has entered the "best shape of his life" portion of the offseason following his rather forgettable two-season stint with the San Francisco 49ers. 

"[My confidence] is much higher than it was when I got into the NFL, for sure," Lance said this week during organized team activities, per Nick Harris of the Cowboys' website. "I kind of didn't know what to expect. I think that's probably most rookies, if not all of them at one point or another throughout that first year. I feel great about where I'm at. Continuing to get better, continuing to learn and continuing to be a better quarterback."

Lance joined the 49ers as the third overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft but spent the majority of his rookie season as a backup. He suffered a campaign-ending ankle injury two starts into the 2022 season and then watched as Brock Purdy became the new face of the 49ers. 

San Francisco traded Lance to Dallas in late August of last year and he essentially completed a redshirt 2023 season with the Cowboys. Lance currently is competing with Cooper Rush for the role of Dallas' primary backup behind starter Dak Prescott.

"My mindset hasn't changed," Lance explained. "I haven't attacked this offseason any differently. Controlling what I can control, continuing to learn the offense and building trust with these guys and the coaching staff as well."

Cowboys quarterbacks coach Scott Tolzien recently discussed how Lance is working to improve his footwork and to grow "more comfortable playing in the West Coast offense" ahead of training camp. Like Prescott, Lance is on track to reach free agency after this season. 

"I think the biggest thing is I've learned a lot about myself and who I am on and off the field," Lance added during his comments. "This offseason, I've been at my best mentally, physically, spiritually knowing who I am, where I am and being able to be present."

Some assume it's simply a matter of when, not if, Prescott and the Cowboys will come to terms on a deal that will keep him their starter beyond the 2024 season. Until that happens, though, Dallas should want to prepare as if Lance could potentially replace Prescott atop the depth chart as soon as next spring.