Chargers Sign Trey Lance as Backup QB Behind Justin Herbert

One-year deal worth up to $6.75 million for former 49ers first-round pick

Mar. 14, 2026 at 9:56pm

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The Los Angeles Chargers have agreed to terms with quarterback Trey Lance on a one-year contract that will make him the backup to star QB Justin Herbert. Lance, a former first-round pick of the San Francisco 49ers, has struggled to find consistent playing time in the NFL but will now look to revive his career as Herbert's understudy in Los Angeles.

Why it matters

The Chargers are looking to build depth behind Herbert, their franchise quarterback, and Lance represents a high-upside option with the potential to develop into a capable NFL starter if given the right opportunity. This signing also provides Lance a chance to prove himself after his draft stock has fallen in recent years.

The details

Lance's contract with the Chargers is a one-year deal worth up to $6.75 million, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The former No. 3 overall pick has played in only 16 games since being drafted in 2021, starting six, and has a career 2-4 record as a starter. He has completed 54% of his passes and thrown 5 touchdowns against 5 interceptions.

  • Lance agreed to terms with the Chargers on Saturday, March 14, 2026.

The players

Trey Lance

A former first-round draft pick of the San Francisco 49ers in 2021 who has struggled to find consistent playing time in the NFL.

Justin Herbert

The Chargers' star quarterback and one of the league's top young passers.

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What’s next

Lance will look to make the most of his opportunity as Herbert's backup and potentially earn a chance to compete for the starting job in the future if he can develop and impress the Chargers' coaching staff.

The takeaway

This signing represents a low-risk, high-reward move for the Chargers as they aim to build depth behind their franchise quarterback. Lance has the potential to revive his career in Los Angeles, but he'll need to prove he can consistently perform at the NFL level to earn a more prominent role.