Tough Trade lessons to learn for NFL Execs
Two trades highlight the pitfalls of Draft risk-assessment
The college season is off and running. Now, the NFL is about to launch its 2023 campaign. Two NFL franchises highlight the challenges as a new evaluation cycle begins. They had to admit their mistakes to move forward in 2023.
San Francisco and Arizona, two franchises in very different situations, had to admit their failings as an organization, from their front offices to their coaching staffs. Both had to part ways with former number-one picks. That should lead to both organizations looking hard at how they evaluate and make future draft process decisions. In both cases, it comes down to this:
Every organization must have a plan for its elite talent!
A New Dance Partner
In a twist that has left many reeling, Trey Lance, once hailed as the future of the San Francisco 49ers, won't be donning the red and gold anymore. Only days after being shifted down the pecking order, he's off to the Dallas Cowboys. And what did the 49ers get in return? A 2024 fourth-round pick.
Financially, The 49ers managed to free up a cool $940,000 in their 2023 salary cap and $5.3 million for 2024. The Cowboys, on the other hand, are taking the risk on Lance's guaranteed contract.
To give this context, San Francisco drafted Lance as the third overall pick in 2021. That's a lofty spot! And now, the Cowboys have snatched up a promising 23-year-old quarterback. The goal? Well, it seems he'll be warming the benches for Dak Prescott for now.
Lance had to go. It’s a good thing.
The signals were there. The 49ers had shifted Lance to the third-string spot, right behind Brock Purdy and Sam Darnold. Despite this demotion, he was in line to play against the Chargers in the 49ers' third preseason game. But then, the trade happened.
Lance's history with the 49ers was rocky. After two initial starts, an injury sidelined him. Over his two seasons, he started four games with an even 2-2 record. Though he struggled a bit, completing 55% of his passes, he had his bright spots with five touchdowns. However, his three interceptions showed there was room for improvement. But let's cut him some slack; he was thrust into the leading role when Jimmy Garoppolo suffered a season-ending injury.
