49ers GM Lynch: Garoppolo 'playing his best football' amid Lance hype

Trey Lance is the future for the San Francisco 49ers, but the team continues to insist that Jimmy Garoppolo firmly remains the present.

The veteran quarterback is expected to keep his starting job entering the 2021 season, and 49ers general manager John Lynch believes the first-round rookie's presence has "brought the best out of" Garoppolo.

"Jimmy's a big-time competitor. We haven't played a game yet, but in practice in the offseason and practice in training camp thus far, he's playing his best football since he's been here, and he's played a lot of good football. Just look at his record," Lynch said on 'The Adam Schefter Podcast.' "People say, 'Well, what do you do if they're both playing great?' That's another great problem to have. And we'll deal with that when it comes."

The 49ers gave up a massive haul of picks to move up nine spots to No. 3 overall in the draft in March, sending their 2021, 2022, and 2023 first-round picks and a 2022 third-rounder to the Miami Dolphins.

After reportedly deciding between Lance and fellow quarterbacks Mac Jones and Justin Fields at third overall, San Francisco bet its long-term success on the former North Dakota State standout.

Lance has received rave reviews in training camp and wowed onlookers with several throws during Tuesday's practice, including this deep bomb to wide receiver Trent Sherfield.

While the 49ers intend to bring Lance along slowly behind Garoppolo, Lynch has already been blown away by the rookie's commitment.

"He's looked tremendous," Lynch said. "He really has. I think what's been most impressive about Trey, everyone wants to talk about physical traits, but the way he approaches his job, he's a pro in its truest sense."

San Francisco will open its 2021 campaign at the Detroit Lions on Sept. 12.