After a strong performance in the Hall of Fame Game, Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Trey Lance received high praise from an unexpected source. Preseason games often create summer heroes, giving unheralded players and those seeking redemption their moment to shine under the bright lights of national television.
Why Did Skip Bayless Compare Trey Lance to Colin Kaepernick?
During Thursday’s Hall of Fame Game, in which the Chargers defeated the Detroit Lions 34-7, Lance reminded the football world why he was once considered a franchise quarterback. The veteran connected on 13 of 20 passes for 120 yards and two touchdowns, making a compelling case for the backup role behind starter Justin Herbert.
Lance threw the ball with zip and precision, placing passes exactly where he needed them throughout his time on the field. Two first-half touchdown throws, one to tight end Will Dissly and the other to rookie KeAndre Lambert-Smith, helped lead the Chargers to a commanding 21-7 halftime lead.
Former FOX and ESPN commentator Skip Bayless was impressed enough to draw a historical parallel between Lance and another quarterback from Jim Harbaugh’s past.
As I’ve said, I believe Jim Harbaugh envisions Colin Kaepernick in Trey Lance. Did you see Harbaugh pounding on Lance’s pads just before kickoff? All this young man needed is a dynamic coach who believes in him and will rebuild his confidence. He’s only 25.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) August 1, 2025
“As I’ve said, I believe Jim Harbaugh envisions Colin Kaepernick in Trey Lance. Did you see Harbaugh pounding on Lance’s pads just before kickoff? All this young man needs is a dynamic coach who believes in him and will rebuild his confidence. He’s only 25.”
However, this comparison takes Harbaugh’s typically enthusiastic coaching style and reads far deeper meaning into it than may actually exist. The parallel to Kaepernick breaks down when you examine their respective situations more closely.
How Different Are Lance’s and Kaepernick’s NFL Journeys?
Kaepernick was a second-round pick, an athletic quarterback with arm strength who the 49ers hoped could develop into a solid starter. Lance, on the other hand, cost the San Francisco 49ers three first-round picks when they traded up to third overall to select him.
The front office believed Lance was their franchise quarterback, the player who would lead them to deep playoff runs and possibly a Super Bowl appearance. The organization held out hope that Lance’s on-field performance would justify their massive investment.
Unfortunately, injuries and inconsistent play cut his San Francisco tenure short, especially after Brock Purdy, the 262nd and final pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, outplayed him.
From there, Lance landed in Dallas, where he started one game and was deactivated for several others. Kaepernick never changed teams during the height of his career and only entered the starting lineup after an injury to then-starter Alex Smith. Additionally, Bayless based his entire assessment on a two-touchdown first half during the first preseason game, against defenders who may not even make final rosters this season.
Trey Lance is an example that all you have to do to become better is leave the 49ers football organization, it’s that easy pic.twitter.com/1pxrtJVy4C
— le spoon (@FDT4EVUR) August 1, 2025
Herbert, with his lucrative contract and consistent production of at least 3,000 passing yards every season he’s played, shows no signs of surrendering the starting position. Barring injury, Los Angeles has placed their faith in Herbert, who led the team to a playoff spot last season. Lance’s most realistic path forward involves becoming a valued backup or stepping in as a spot starter if Herbert suffers an injury.
