49ers sign QB Sam Darnold. Have they lost faith in Trey Lance?

I think so. One only has to compare the play of Lance in his three or so starts to that of Brock Purdy. Whereas Lance with all his athletic gifts struggled, 7th-round pick Purdy impressed from the first snap under center, and led the team deep into the playoffs.

Don't judge Darnold solely on past performances. He played on weak teams and for many coaches who couldn't retain their jobs. The 49ers likely believe their more stable environment and wealth of talent can produce better results.

I haven't seen much of Trey Lance to get excited about. I like the Darnold signing. And you can bet the 49ers vetted him deeply.

Story by Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle:

This week, the 49ers signed QB Sam Darnold to an incentive-heavy contract with a maximum value of $11.5 million to … compete with Lance to become the 49ers’ backup?

The decision to add Darnold, 25, the No. 3 pick in the 2018 draft, and the details of his one-year deal, invite more questions about Lance, 22, whose four uneven career starts mean he remains a mystery two years after the 49ers traded up to select him with the No. 3 pick.

The addition of Darnold suggests a disconnect between the 49ers’ words and actions on how they view their QB position in 2023 and, by extension, Lance’s ability to lead a Super Bowl contender, if necessary.

SNIP

The 49ers appeared to be eager to add Darnold, a five-year veteran with 55 career starts. On Monday, about five hours after teams and players could begin negotiating contracts, it was first reported that Darnold had agreed to terms on a deal that has $3.5 million guaranteed and includes $7 million in incentives.

LINK (paywall): https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/49ers/article/49ers-signing-qb-sam-darnold-mean-trey-lance-17841055.php