Lance steps into the spotlight, a crucial Week 18 performance to answer lingering questions and stake his claim for an NFL future.
The Los Angeles Chargers are set to square off against the Denver Broncos today at Mile High in a game where Jim Harbaugh has turned to backup quarterback Trey Lance to lead the Bolts. This matchup will not push the Chargers any higher than the sixth seed and a likely matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, with the more probable outcome being a fall to the seventh seed and a date with Drake Maye and the New England Patriots.
While this game may mean very little in the standings for Los Angeles, the players suiting up still have plenty to play for. And no one has more to gain from today than Trey Lance.
Lance has bounced around the league since being selected third overall by San Francisco in the 2021 NFL Draft. Few quarterbacks carry more unanswered questions about their ability to play the position at a high level. What was once viewed as a high-upside franchise passer has turned into a player fighting to prove he belongs as a reliable NFL quarterback.
Week 18 against one of the league’s top defenses gives Lance a real opportunity. If he can keep this Chargers offense afloat with backup skill players and a patchwork offensive line, league executives and coaching staffs will take notice. No one should expect Lance to throw for 300 yards, score four touchdowns or lead a statement win. That is not the bar.
The real questions are simpler. Can he use his legs to escape pressure when it inevitably arrives? Can he deliver the ball accurately and on time? Can he manage the offense, get the team into the right plays and avoid repeatedly putting the defense back on the field after quick three-and-outs?
If Lance can do those things and orchestrate a competent game, he could very well earn himself a future as the Chargers’ backup quarterback or draw interest elsewhere. Teams across the league are still searching for answers under center heading into the 2026–2027 season. Could Las Vegas take a chance on a 25-year-old with upside? Could the Jets bring him in as competition if they bypass a quarterback in the draft? Those doors stay open with a solid performance.
Lance is not going to play his way into a guaranteed starting role with one game. But this is his chance to show he belongs in the conversation. If he plays well, the Chargers may even benefit down the line with a compensatory pick should he move on.
For Lance’s sake, Chargers fans should be rooting for a strong showing. And if that comes with a loss that avoids a first-round trip to Jacksonville, no one in powder blue will be complaining.