Introduction
Trey Lance, the former third overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, remains one of the most polarizing quarterbacks of his generation. With a unique blend of raw athleticism and arm strength, his early career has been a rollercoaster of expectations, injuries, and intrigue. From his NFL Draft class to his recent appearance in the Hall of Fame Game 2025, Lance’s journey is far from over.
This in-depth article explores Trey Lance’s career earnings, the dynamics of his 2021 draft class, his participation in the 2025 Hall of Fame Game, and a full analysis of his preseason stats. Let’s take a deep dive into everything surrounding the young QB’s evolving NFL career.
Who is Trey Lance?
Trey Lance was born on May 9, 2000, in Marshall, Minnesota. Known for his dynamic dual-threat capabilities, Lance played his college football at North Dakota State University (NDSU), a powerhouse in the FCS. Despite only starting one full season in 2019, his dominant performances made him a top quarterback prospect.
In 2021, the San Francisco 49ers traded up to the No. 3 overall pick to select him, hoping to find their quarterback of the future. However, injuries, competition, and inconsistency have limited his impact so far. Still, Trey Lance’s potential continues to generate buzz around the NFL.
Career Earnings: How Much Has Trey Lance Made?
Rookie Contract Breakdown
Trey Lance signed a four-year, $34.1 million fully guaranteed contract with the 49ers after being drafted third overall in 2021. Here’s a breakdown:
- Signing Bonus: $22.1 million
- Base Salary (Year 1): $660,000
- Total Cap Hit (2021): $6.2 million
- Fully Guaranteed: Yes
This contract placed him among the highest-paid rookies in the 2021 class. Additionally, it included a fifth-year team option for the 2025 season, which teams often exercise only if the player performs well in the first three years.
Trade to Dallas Cowboys
In August 2023, Trey Lance was traded to the Dallas Cowboys for a fourth-round pick. The Cowboys absorbed the remainder of his rookie deal but not the fifth-year option, meaning he’ll become a free agent after 2024 unless extended or re-signed.
Estimated Career Earnings (As of 2025)
- Total Career Earnings (2021–2024): ~$28 million
- 2025 Salary: TBD (depending on roster status and contract extension)
- Bonus Incentives: Minimal, as he has not met most performance-based triggers
Trey Lance has earned more through guarantees than on-field play. His earnings-to-snaps ratio has often been discussed, given his limited playing time.
Draft Class: A Look Back at the 2021 NFL Draft
The 2021 NFL Draft was filled with quarterback talent and high expectations. Trey Lance was part of a historically significant QB class, which included:
Top Quarterbacks from 2021 Draft Class:
- Trevor Lawrence (1st overall, Jaguars)
- Zach Wilson (2nd overall, Jets)
- Trey Lance (3rd overall, 49ers)
- Justin Fields (11th overall, Bears)
- Mac Jones (15th overall, Patriots)
Evaluation of Lance’s Place in the Draft Class
At the time of the draft, Trey Lance was seen as a high-ceiling, low-floor prospect. While Trevor Lawrence and Justin Fields had more experience against elite competition, Lance’s tools and poise impressed scouts.
Career Comparisons (2021–2025):
| Player | Starts | TD:INT | Pass Yards | Rushing Yards | Status (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trevor Lawrence | 61 | 87:37 | 15,900+ | 1,250+ | Franchise QB |
| Justin Fields | 45 | 52:34 | 9,700+ | 2,500+ | Steelers (2025) |
| Mac Jones | 41 | 48:36 | 9,200+ | 150 | Backup QB (Jaguars) |
| Trey Lance | 6 | 5:3 | 800+ | 240 | Backup QB (Cowboys) |
| Zach Wilson | 33 | 23:25 | 7,000+ | 300 | Broncos (2025) |
While Lance has the fewest starts among this group, his physical tools still intrigue teams. With more developmental reps, he could still thrive in the right system. Trey Lance Career Earnings.
Hall of Fame Game 2025: Trey Lance’s Comeback Attempt
The 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game was more than just a preseason opener—it marked a potential comeback stage for Trey Lance.
Cowboys vs. Steelers – Hall of Fame Game 2025
Date: August 1, 2025
Location: Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, Canton, Ohio
Teams: Dallas Cowboys vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Trey Lance’s Performance:
- Pass Attempts: 14
- Completions: 9
- Passing Yards: 106
- Touchdowns: 1
- Interceptions: 0
- Rushing Yards: 18 (on 3 attempts)
Lance entered the game in the second quarter and played until midway through the third. His poise, mobility, and accuracy stood out, especially on a 35-yard TD strike to WR Jalen Tolbert.
Key Takeaways:
- He looked more confident in the pocket.
- Footwork and mechanics showed improvement.
- No turnovers — a huge plus for Lance’s resume.
- Analysts praised his performance, calling it “his best showing as a Cowboy.”
This game could serve as a launching pad for Lance to compete for QB2 duties behind Dak Prescott or increase his trade value. Trey Lance Career Earnings.
Preseason Stats and Progression
While the Hall of Fame Game gave a glimpse of Lance’s potential, it’s his overall preseason performance that will determine his 2025 outlook.
Career Preseason Stats (2021–2025):
| Year | Team | Games | Comp/Att | Pass Yards | TD | INT | Rush Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 49ers | 3 | 19/34 | 276 | 3 | 1 | 20 |
| 2022 | 49ers | 2 | 11/16 | 141 | 1 | 0 | 15 |
| 2023 | 49ers/Cowboys | 3 | 22/36 | 265 | 1 | 1 | 18 |
| 2024 | Cowboys | 2 | 15/24 | 198 | 2 | 0 | 30 |
| 2025 | Cowboys | 1* | 9/14 | 106 | 1 | 0 | 18 |
*Only includes Hall of Fame Game so far.
Observations:
- Improved decision-making: Fewer turnovers as he gained experience.
- Enhanced mobility: More designed runs and confidence outside the pocket.
- Better accuracy: Higher completion rates year over year.
If his preseason trend continues upward, Trey Lance could finally claim a stable role in the NFL—either as a backup or a future starter elsewhere.
Future Outlook: Can Trey Lance Still Be a Franchise Quarterback?
Despite early setbacks, Trey Lance remains just 25 years old in 2025. Here are several potential career paths:
1. QB2 in Dallas with Occasional Starts
If Dak Prescott deals with injuries or decline, Lance could see meaningful snaps.
2. Trade Candidate
Strong preseason play might attract interest from QB-needy teams (e.g., Raiders, Commanders, Panthers).
3. Long-Term Developmental Project
Lance could sign a low-risk, high-upside deal elsewhere to compete in training camp.
4. Geno Smith Route
He may take a few more years but eventually find his rhythm with a new franchise—just like Geno did with the Seahawks.
Conclusion
Trey Lance’s NFL journey has been anything but conventional. From being a top-3 pick with massive potential to a backup quarterback fighting for a roster spot, his career encapsulates the unpredictable nature of the league.
- His career earnings have been significant, thanks to his rookie contract.
- He remains a notable member of the 2021 draft class, despite limited starts.
- The 2025 Hall of Fame Game gave fans hope of a revival.
- His preseason stats show steady progression and glimpses of a high ceiling.
Whether Lance will ultimately rise to become a franchise quarterback or settle into a long-term backup role remains to be seen. But one thing is certain—he still has time, talent, and tools to reshape his narrative.
