Entering the NFL Training Camp next month, the latest Los Angeles Chargers trade rumors could be triggered with third-string QB DJ Uiagalelei competing for a backup role. With that, it leaves former first-round pick, Trey Lance, with questions regarding his future. Uiagalelei hasn’t competed since being undrafted, but may apparently eventually take over for the long-term backup role. However, the Chargers re-signed Lance to a one-year deal, but if things fall apart in training camp, could the team consider trading him?
It depends on how this season plays out for the Chargers. The team hired offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, who’d probably prefer to keep as many QB’s to supplement Justin Herbert. Still, if the team has a losing season during the 2026 campaign, they could try to maximize as much capital as possible. At the same time, since he’s only under a one-year contract, could they consider a trade either way if he generates serious interest?
It’s very possible. There have been numerous QB’s, including Malik Willis and Sam Darnold, who have won full-time starting jobs. Unfortunately, the former North Dakota State product hasn’t had a decent chance to shine other than in the 2025 regular season finale.
Chargers Trade: $2.5M Top Pick Could Be Dealt Before Season
So What?
While Lance couldn’t bring in a win last year in a regular-season loss against the Broncos, he completed 20 of 44 passes for 134 yards while rushing for 69. Before that, he had some opportunities during his stint in Dallas for two seasons, mostly backing up Dak Prescott. However, when the veteran entered the league, he had high stakes to become a long-term starter in San Francisco.
While he beat Jimmy Garoppolo for starting duties, it wasn’t until he suffered a season-ending ankle injury. In his last year with the 49ers, Brock Purdy took advantage by leading the team to an NFC Championship Game, the same campaign Lance was hurt. Fast-forward, the top pick remains looking for a full-time role, and these three teams could call up the QB depending on their situation.
Possible Next Teams
Carolina Panthers
Despite signing Kenny Pickett to back up Bryce Young, the team is still wary of extending the starting QB. The Panthers want to lock in a long-term deal for Young, but they’re not sold on him yet. Instead, they picked up his fifth-year option, which means he will need to prove his abilities for at least one more season.
After drafting Chris Brazzell in this year’s draft and signing Jaelan Phillips and Devin Lloyd to bring in some firepower for the defense, the Panthers have a loaded squad. Carolina shouldn’t have an issue competing in the postseason in 2027. If Young struggles, they could bench him and give Pickett the starting role. From there, the team may consider trading for a QB during the season to help Pickett, and Lance might be a cost-controlled favorite.
Baltimore Ravens
Meanwhile, this would be an interesting situation for Lance if he lands in Baltimore. Entering the 2026 campaign, back-to-back MVP Lamar Jackson has two years left on his current deal, and the team has yet to negotiate a new deal. It’s been rumored that he could request a trade if he doesn’t receive a deal to his liking. It’s a 50/50 game right now.
If the Ravens collapse once again, but Jackson has a decent season, who’s in the wrong here? Could Baltimore be stopping Jackson from reaching his full potential even after hiring Jesse Minter? If so, the Ravens could explore the trade market and bring in some QB competition at least for the backup role, and Lance may battle with Tyler Huntley for the position.
New Orleans Saints
With the expectation of another rebuild season, the New Orleans Saints have been rumored to move backup QB Spencer Rattler before the 2026 season. The team promoted Tyler Shough as the new starter, and it’s shaping up to be his job to keep. If Rattler struggles during NFL Training Camp, they could trade Zach Wilson for Lance, where Wilson is looking for a starting job himself.
