Brock Purdy and Trey Lance Stay Close as Their NFL Careers Take Different Paths

Brock Purdy, the final pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, began his NFL career as a longshot. He only got the opportunity to play due to injuries to quarterbacks Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo. Once Purdy stepped in, he impressed enough to solidify his place as the starting quarterback, ultimately making Lance and Garoppolo expendable. His rise was unexpected but swift, shifting the team’s direction at quarterback.

Lance’s NFL Journey Takes Unexpected Turns, But His Bond With Purdy Stays Strong

Trey Lance, once seen as the 49ers’ quarterback of the future after being selected third overall in 2021, struggled to find his footing. Despite high expectations, injuries and inconsistent play limited his opportunities. By 2023, he was traded to the Dallas Cowboys for just a fourth-round pick—a steep fall from his draft-day value. Now, Lance has moved on again, signing with the Los Angeles Chargers to back up Justin Herbert.

Despite the professional shakeups, Purdy and Lance have maintained a strong friendship. Speaking on the Bussin’ With The Boys podcast, Purdy reflected on their relationship, calling Lance a “bro” and expressing sincere respect for him. The quarterback room dynamics did not seem to affect their bond, even as one ascended and the other struggled to find a home.

Friendship Tested by Trades, but Mutual Respect Between Purdy and Lance Remains Strong

Purdy admitted that Lance’s departure to Dallas caught him off guard. The news came right before a preseason game against the Chargers, and he felt unsure of how to react. Purdy wished Lance nothing but success and hoped the new opportunity in Dallas would benefit him. This moment underscored the harsh realities of the NFL, where personal connections often collide with business decisions.

Though their careers have taken very different paths, Purdy emphasized that his respect for Lance remains unchanged. The two have kept in touch sporadically through text messages, exchanging well-wishes without discussing the emotional complexities of their NFL experiences. For both players, their bond appears rooted in mutual respect and the shared journey they’ve been through—despite ending up in very different places.