Trey Lance trade fallout: Winners and losers as 49ers deal QB to Cowboys

The San Francisco 49ers traded quarterback Trey Lance, the third overall pick in the 2021 draft, to the Dallas Cowboys for a fourth-round pick in 2024. While Lance's fall from QB1 to QB3 is disappointing, he now has a fresh start and the potential to become Dak Prescott's backup. Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy has a track record of developing young quarterbacks, and Lance could benefit from his guidance. Other winners include Brock Purdy, who now has a clear path to the starting role in San Francisco, and Nick Bosa, as Lance's departure frees up salary cap space for a potential long-term deal. On the other hand, Lance faces the challenge of adapting to a new team without an offseason to learn the ropes, and his tenure with the 49ers may be seen as a disappointment. Dak Prescott's position as the Cowboys' starting quarterback is secure for now, but Lance adds intrigue to the future. Backup quarterbacks Cooper Rush and Brandon Allen may face uncertainty with Lance's arrival. Overall, the trade is seen as a football catastrophe for the 49ers, who gave up multiple draft picks to acquire Lance.