The Atlanta Falcons are reportedly in early-stage negotiations to secure a surprising but potentially game-changing backup quarterback in Trey Lance. While this move may seem unconventional at first, a closer look reveals why Lance could be the perfect addition to the Falcons’ roster.
Trey Lance, a mobile quarterback with a powerful arm, brings an exciting skill set to the table. He has the ability to make plays both on the ground and through the air, with the capacity to push the ball vertically downfield. The Falcons’ current starting quarterback, Desmond Ridder, has shown flashes of promise but hasn’t quite cemented his role as the long-term solution. With a similar mobile and strong-armed backup like Lance, the Falcons would be able to develop a player who can step in if needed while also complementing Ridder’s style of play. The Falcons would be wise to add a backup that offers the same dynamic skill set, as this allows for seamless transitions in case of injury or other unforeseen circumstances.
The financial side of the deal works in the Falcons’ favor as well. Lance is still on his rookie contract, meaning the team could potentially acquire him at a low cost. By bringing Lance in for a relatively modest deal, the Falcons could use the opportunity to develop him further, enhancing his skill set behind the scenes. Over time, he could evolve into a valuable asset—either as a trade piece or as a capable backup quarterback. This strategy isn’t unfamiliar to successful teams; Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs mastered it with quarterbacks like Alex Smith and Patrick Mahomes, turning investment into future value with minimal risk.
It’s important to remember that Lance’s potential isn’t just based on raw physical traits. He was drafted third overall by the San Francisco 49ers in the 2021 NFL Draft, ahead of high-profile players like Kyle Pitts. While Lance’s time with the 49ers has been rocky due to injuries and inconsistent play, the talent that made him a top pick is still evident. He has the ability to develop into a solid quarterback with proper coaching and experience, and the Falcons could be the perfect environment for him to grow.
Trey Lance starts with a 31-yard completion
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In contrast, the Falcons have indicated that they’re comfortable with Kirk Cousins as their backup quarterback. However, the chances of Cousins actually joining the Falcons are slim, leaving the door open for a move like this. Bringing in Lance could not only provide an exciting future for the backup role but also give the Falcons the kind of depth and flexibility they need in the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL.
In the end, the decision to bring in Lance is one that makes a lot of sense for Atlanta. The Falcons could get a potential steal by adding a player with so much upside for minimal cost, and the gamble could pay off in a big way.
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