Trey Lance bringing the best out of Jimmy Garoppolo at 49ers
Niners GM John Lynch has insisted that the arrival of rookie sensation Trey Lance is bringing the best out of Jimmy Garoppolo.
San Francisco’s decision to snatch QB sensation Trey Lance in the first round of the 2021 draft was taken as a signal that the franchise’s patience with Jimmy Garoppolo had run out.
There is a palpable level of excitement surrounding Lance among 49ers fans, with many hoping to see him take the starting quarter-back position. However, Niners GM John Lynch has insisted that the competition for his starting place has brought the best out of Garoppolo, whom the franchise continues to back despite the arrival of the promising rookie.
Lynch: Garoppolo "playing at a high level"
"Jimmy's a big-time competitor, and we haven't played a game yet, but in practice in the offseason and practice in training camp thus far, he's playing his best football since he's been here, and he's played a lot of good football. Just look at his record," Niners GM John Lynch told the Adam Schefter's podcast.
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"People say, 'well, what do you do if they're both playing great?' That's another great problem to have. And we'll deal with that when it comes.
"He really is playing at a high level, and I don't want to talk about it too much -- as I'm doing so in front of millions of people -- but it's something everyone's recognizing. He's really playing at a high level, and that's the type of competitor (he is), that's what competitors do. When they're challenged, they rise to the occasion, and I think he's doing a great job of that."
Lynch's words echo the recent comments of Niners coach Kyle Shanahan, who recently indicated to Garoppolo that he was the franchhise’s undisputed starter.
The problems with Garoppolo at the Levi's Stadium have not come down to his numbers on the field (22-8, 7,325 yards, 26 touchdowns), but his injury issues. In just under four years in San Francisco, he has suffered a torn ligament and a torn ankle, which sidelined him for 23 games. But it seems San Francisco are willing to continue to put their faith in the 29-year-old Illisnois native while Lance plays second fiddle, at least for now.
Praise for Lance
Lynch was also full of praise for Lance, who has impressed everyone in training camp.
"He's looked tremendous," Lynch told Schefter. "He really has. I think what's been most impressive about Trey, everyone wants to talk about physical traits, but the way he approaches his job, he's a pro in its truest sense.
"We've got a lot of guys who love the game and are willing to do the necessary things to prepare, and I think Trey really is an embodiment of that. And he's looking good on the field, too."