Naming our Los Angeles Chargers Player of the Game for Week 1 preseason victory vs. Detroit Lions

During Los Angeles' first drive, Lance hit tight end Will Dissly on a 5-yard bootleg pass to the right into the endzone. On the Chargers' second possession, Lance found wide receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith down the sidelines for a 28-yard gain.

Lance continued making plays on L.A.'s fifth possession, connecting with Lambert-Smith once again, this time on a quick slant for a 15-yard touchdown.

As a whole, Lance finished the night completing 13-20 passes for 120 yards and two touchdowns, also tacking on eight yards rushing. It was an encouraging performance for the young QB who is still trying to find his footing in the league.

Lance was the third overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft by the 49ers. He was believed to be San Francisco's next franchise QB, but injuries and inconsistent play slowed him down. In 2023 Lance was traded to the Dallas Cowboys, but spent the entire season as a healthy scratch.

When starter Dak Prescott sustained a season-ending injury in Week 9 of 2024, Lance became the backup to new starter Cooper Rush. Lance got the start in the season finale against the Washington Commanders, throwing for 244 yards in a 23–19 loss.

Lance signed with the Chargers during the 2025 offseason. He is currently third on the QB depth chart, but it's possible he leapfrogs Taylor Heinickie for the No. 2 role if he continues to play well throughout the preseason. Lance has always had the physical tools to be successful, and perhaps now he has enough experience and confidence to take the next step in his development.