PALM BEACH. Fla. — The NFL season is still six months away. San Francisco 49ersCoach Kyle Shanahan has yet to announce his starting quarterback. He might not make an official announcement, just like last year.
If it wasn’t obvious, Shanahan and Niners plan to give the keys to Trey LanceShanahan gave many subtle and not-so subtle clues during his Tuesday morning media conference at the NFL owners meetings at Breakers Hotel.
The 49ers have not been able to trade the incumbent quarterback so far in this offseason Jimmy GaroppoloIt was not without effort. Shanahan reiterated Monday’s comments by John Lynch, the general manager, about Garoppolo’s right-shoulder surgery preventing potential trades.
However, this doesn’t change Lance’s decision to assume the role of head coach as he enters his second NFL year. All signs point to Garoppolo remaining with the Niners until Lance is fully healthy. After that, Lance will be able to move on while Lance develops.
Shanahan stated, “That’s why Jimmy was traded because we believe Trey can be an effective starter and we are ready to do so.” “But if our team can’t be upgraded in another way, then we’re going to get rid a good quarterback because other quarterbacks are on the roster. Quarterbacks are hard to find. Some teams don’t even have one, and it’s a good thing that we have three we love.
Trey came here to be that one day, and I think it will be sooner than we think. But until Jimmy has his surgery and we are unable to upgrade our team by getting good picks before people feel good about that procedure (surgery), then I’m okay with that. We aren’t just going to get rid off him. Jimmy is a great player and a friend that we all enjoy. We’ll wait to see what helps the Niners most.
Lynch clarified that the Niners won’t release Garoppolo. However, Lynch acknowledged the possibility that Garoppolo might be on the roster in 2022 at his current cap cost of $27 million. Shanahan indicated Tuesday that he still sees Garoppolo in the Niners’ lineup for next season. But he hasn’t considered the possibility of Garoppolo training camp if Garoppolo is still with them.
Garoppolo could hinder Lance’s progress, which is perhaps even more important. This wasn’t an issue last season, but Shanahan is aware of it given the circumstances.
Shanahan stated, “You have to ensure that you are not hindering his growth.” “Trey is working hard. He knows my feelings about him. He understands what our expectations of him are. I believe he has a lot of respect and admiration for Jimmy. The situation is not complicated. We tried to make a move in order to add draft picks… and we came very close. Jimmy got the surgery, which completely changed things.
Trey will be able to understand everything. It’s something I haven’t had to discuss with him. It makes sense to me for all of these guys. Trey isn’t insecure. The situation is logical to me. It isn’t shady. He is confident. He will come in and play football. Focus on winning against anyone, no matter who it is (Garoppolo) or Nate (Sudfeld). He will come in and do his best to be the best.
Garoppolo’s shoulder will likely prevent him from throwing until July so Lance will be the starter. Nate SudfeldNo matter what happens to Garoppolo, Shanahan will continue to serve as the back-up in the offseason program. Shanahan stated that Garoppolo will be on the roster if he is available.
Shanahan also left a hint about the team’s plans for quarterback. He has had a lot of offseason communication with Lance and Garoppolo. Shanahan stated that Garoppolo’s communication is “good”, but that he hasn’t had much contact with Garoppolo, noting that he prefers to “get away” from Garoppolo.
Shanahan spoke with Lance, saying, “Trey’s a guy that I talk to all of the time.” He also gave details about Lance’s offseason, including his plans to continue to train in southern California together Sudfeld and other teammates until the offseason program starts in April.
Shanahan stated, “Trey is preparing well for these nine OTA day,” But that’s a lot of what you can do on your own. When you’re ready to play football, it is time to get into practice. You’ve probably done everything you can in the offseason, so you are ready to go. You can start by getting yourself prepared for these nine practice sessions.