Chargers coach makes big quarterback decision ahead of Hall of Fame Game

It’s been over 170 days since the last NFL snap, but the drought ends on Thursday, when the Los Angeles Chargers face the Detroit Lions in the Hall of Fame Game. For quarterback Trey Lance, it could be a make-or-break moment in his NFL career.

“I just want to get Lance game experience”

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh announced that Lance will start under center in Canton, Ohio, getting the nod over Justin Herbert and Taylor Heinicke. Harbaugh explained the decision by emphasizing his desire to give the former San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys quarterback more live-game reps.

“He’s had a heck of a camp,” Harbaugh told reporters, before adding: “I just want to get Trey Lance game experience. With his career and then in college, he doesn’t have as much as most guys.”

Lance’s career has been defined as much by inactivity as potential. At North Dakota State, he redshirted in 2018, started all 16 games in 2019 - leading the Bison to an undefeated FCS title run—and played just one game in 2020 before the season was cut short by the covid-19 pandemic. In total, his college résumé includes only 19 games, all at the FCS level.

Drafted third overall in 2021 by the 49ers, Lance appeared in just eight games over two seasons before being traded to the Cowboys in 2023. He saw limited action there as well, playing in only four games - all in 2024. Since turning pro, Lance has played in just 12 games, starting five.

The Chargers’ plan for the Hall of Fame Game

Harbaugh’s approach for Thursday is clear: keep the veterans on the sidelines. That means stars like Herbert, Rashawn Slater, Khalil Mack and Derwin James Jr. will be on the sidelines.

Instead, the spotlight will shine on the team’s rookie class. Running back Omarion Hampton and wide receivers Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith are expected to see extended playing time against Detroit, giving fans an early look at the Chargers’ future.

Chargers vs Lions: when, where, how to watch?

In the 2025 Hall of Fame Game, the Chargers and the Lions face off on Thursday, July 31, with the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium the venue. Kick-off in Ohio is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT.

NBC will be airing the Hall of Fame Game. You can stream the network’s coverage live on the online platform fubo, which offers new users a free trial.

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