Trey Lance: Preseason Stats, Stats Preseason and Is He Playing Tonight?

Trey Lance is attracting attention during the 2026 NFL preseason as he competes for a bigger role with the Los Angeles Chargers. The former No. 3 overall pick has shown flashes of his athletic ability while battling for the backup quarterback job behind Justin Herbert.

With fans searching for Trey Lance preseason stats, his latest performance provides plenty to discuss. Lance played in the Chargers’ preseason matchup against the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday, August 20, 2026, after also starting the preseason opener against the Houston Texans.

Trey Lance preseason stats

Lance’s first preseason appearance came against the Texans on August 13. According to NFL.com, he completed 12 of 20 passes for 164 yards, averaging 8.2 yards per attempt. He did not throw a touchdown and had one interception. Lance also rushed three times for 27 yards.

His first outing produced a 65.4 passer rating. Although the Chargers won 27-7, Lance had some inconsistent moments, including an interception that Houston safety Kamari Ramsey nearly turned into a bigger play.

His second preseason appearance came against his former team, the San Francisco 49ers. Lance completed 10 of 16 passes for 73 yards and added 42 rushing yards, according to reports from the game.

Trey Lance 2026 preseason numbers

These numbers show why Lance remains an intriguing player for Los Angeles. His rushing ability adds another dimension that can be difficult for defenses to handle.

How did Trey Lance play against the 49ers?

The Chargers lost their preseason matchup with San Francisco 41-17, but Lance showed some encouraging mobility. He completed 10 of 16 throws for 73 yards and produced 42 rushing yards. One of his most notable plays was a 37-yard scramble.

The Chargers used several quarterbacks during the game. Justin Herbert played only the opening series, while Lance was among the quarterbacks who received extended preseason opportunities.

For Lance, the game was particularly notable because he was facing the organization that selected him third overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Is Trey Lance playing tonight?

No. Trey Lance is not playing tonight, August 21, 2026.

The Chargers played their second preseason game against the 49ers on Thursday, August 20, and that game has already been completed. San Francisco won 41-17.

Therefore, searches asking whether Trey Lance is playing tonight should distinguish between the August 20 game and the next Chargers preseason contest.

Los Angeles’ next preseason game is scheduled for Thursday, August 27, against the Los Angeles Rams. NFL.com’s schedule lists the kickoff for 10 p.m. EDT.

Whether Lance plays in that game will depend on the Chargers’ quarterback rotation and coaching decisions.

What is Lance’s role with the Chargers?

Lance entered the 2026 season competing for the No. 2 quarterback role behind Justin Herbert. He is competing with D.J. Uiagalelei for opportunities in the Chargers’ quarterback room.

His athleticism remains one of his biggest advantages. Lance can make plays with his legs, extend possessions outside the pocket and create explosive gains as a runner.

However, consistency as a passer remains important. His first preseason game included an interception and some questionable decision-making, showing that his development is still a work in progress.

Why the preseason matters for Trey Lance

The preseason represents an important opportunity for Lance because he is trying to establish himself as a reliable NFL backup.

Unlike a starting quarterback, a backup may have limited opportunities during the regular season. However, injuries can suddenly put that player into a major role. For Lance, therefore, showing that he can protect the football, make accurate throws and use his athleticism effectively could be crucial.

His 2026 preseason performances have provided both positives and areas for improvement.

The 164 passing yards against Houston demonstrated his ability to move the football, while his rushing production against San Francisco again highlighted his athletic profile. At the same time, avoiding turnovers and improving consistency will remain key.

Trey Lance preseason outlook

Lance’s preseason numbers should be viewed in context. Preseason games involve different personnel combinations, limited game plans and extensive rotations. As a result, statistics alone do not determine a quarterback’s regular-season value.

Still, Lance’s combination of arm talent and mobility gives him an interesting profile. His competition for the Chargers’ backup job could remain one of the storylines to watch as the preseason moves toward its conclusion.

The Chargers have one more preseason game against the Rams on August 27 before turning their attention toward the regular season.

Final thoughts

The latest Trey Lance preseason stats show a quarterback who continues to offer significant athletic upside. Through his first two preseason appearances, he has demonstrated both his ability to make plays with his arm and his effectiveness as a runner.

Against Houston, Lance recorded 164 passing yards and 27 rushing yards. Against San Francisco, he added 73 passing yards and 42 rushing yards.

As for the question “Is Trey Lance playing tonight?”, the answer on August 21 is no. The Chargers’ most recent game was Thursday’s 41-17 preseason loss to the 49ers, and their next scheduled preseason game is August 27 against the Rams.

FAQs

What are Trey Lance’s 2026 preseason stats?
Through two reported preseason appearances, Lance has completed 22 of 36 passes for 237 yards, while adding 69 rushing yards. His first game included one interception.

Did Trey Lance play against the 49ers?
Yes. Lance played for the Chargers against San Francisco on August 20, completing 10 of 16 passes for 73 yards and rushing for 42 yards.

Is Trey Lance playing tonight?
No. The Chargers played the 49ers on Thursday, August 20. Their next preseason game is against the Rams on August 27.

Who is Trey Lance competing with for the Chargers’ backup quarterback job?
Lance has been competing with D.J. Uiagalelei for a backup role behind Justin Herbert.

When do the Chargers play next?
Los Angeles is scheduled to host the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday, August 27, in its final preseason game.