Trey Lance's journey from the No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft to a potential exit from the NFL exemplifies the harsh realities of professional football. After the San Francisco 49ers traded significant assets to select him, Lance struggled with injuries and performance issues. His time with the 49ers ended poorly, culminating in a demotion to third-string in favor of Sam Darnold in 2023, eventually leading to his trade to the Dallas Cowboys, where he faced a similar fate.

As free agency unfolds, Lance remains unsigned, prompting the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the Canadian Football League to express interest by adding him to their negotiation list. This situation highlights how quickly the fortunes of an NFL quarterback can change, especially for those who were once seen as high-potential prospects. Meanwhile, the draft picks traded away for Lance have resulted in the acquisition of several impactful players, including Defensive Rookie of the Year Micah Parsons, emphasizing the steep price of a gamble that did not pay off.