Trey Lance now holds this unwanted record after Cowboys acquire ex-top 5 pick from 49ers

The 49ers have traded Trey Lance to the Cowboys for a 2024 fourth-round pick, surely not the return anyone expected after San Francisco traded three first-round picks to move up from the 12th overall pick to the third selection for Lance in 2021.

Lance’s final tallies in a 49ers uniform are eye-popping: 

• Eight games played and four starts (2-2 record)
• 102 pass attempts
• Five touchdown passes and three interceptions

When you boil it down, the 49ers gave up more first-round picks for Lance (three) than wins they got from him (two). 

According to ESPN Stats & Information, Lance’s eight games played are the fewest by any top-five pick with his debut team in the common draft era (since 1967). 

Here’s the company he shares (courtesy of Sportradar). The previous low-mark was held by Bengals QB Greg Cook, who retired after only 12 games with Cincinnati due to arm and shoulder injuries.

Fewest games played by top-5 pick with debut team in Common Draft Era (since 1967)

Lance’s number would have been higher, but he broke his ankle against the Seahawks in Week 2 last season after beginning the season as San Francisco’s starting QB. That would prove to be his last game in a 49ers uniform.