Here's the truth through two preseason games. Neither Trey Lance nor DJ Uiagalelei have shown they deserve to be the backup quarterback to Justin Herbert.
Lance has been inaccurate through the air and has really only solved problems with his legs. Too many balls are often overthrown or underthrown as he's trying to get the ball out faster. Week 2 wasn't quite as bad as Lance's five minute drill in the second quarter of Week 1. But still, the film doesn't really show a player that's earned it— unlike his performance last preseason.
And for all of Lance's faults, Uiagalelei has not stepped up and taken the job from him. There have been moments of nice throws, but his inconsistent arm has also left balls short and created turnover worthy plays.
Will the Chargers end up going after a QB2 option on the market? I'm not sure. As of now, I think they'll probably stick with Lance in the regular season. But here are a few names the Chargers could look at if they're not happy with what they've seen so far in the competition.
6 backup QB options for the Chargers as we near the end of training camp
Free agent QB Jimmy Garoppolo
Jimmy Garoppolo has mulled retirement for the last few months, but has made nothing official. The fit here makes sense on paper. Garoppolo spent six years with the 49ers in Kyle Shanahan's system. His time there also overlaps with when Chargers OC Mike McDaniel was with the organization.
Garoppolo was with the Rams last season. He's probably still in the area, at least prior to calling it a career. He last started a regular season game in Week 18 of 2024 where he threw for 334 yards, two touchdowns, and one INT vs. Seattle. He also got into three games as the backup during 2025.
Is he what he used to be in the late 2010s? No. But when you consider the scheme fit and at least a decent example of running an offense in the regular season fairly recently, he's worth a flyer. And unlike some trade scenarios in this article, you're not giving up a draft pick.
Colts QB Anthony Richardson
Anthony Richardson has been demoted to Colts QB3. It's uncertain as to whether he makes the roster or not. He's now on an expiring contract after Indianapolis turned down his fifth-year option in earlier this year. The tape wasn't all bad for him last week in the preseason, but it could've been better. Richardson is probably lower on this list of options for me since he's more of a reclamation project than an established backup.
But the talent and profile is still worth a call.
Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy
In the same vein as Richardson, J.J. McCarthy falls under reclamation project column. There's obviously the history with Michigan HC Jim Harbaugh and the former Michigan staff members that are now with LA. The Minnesota QB is at his lowest value. Unlike Richardson, he's not an expiring. McCarthy is under contract for 2026 and 2027.
This one is also a tougher sell for me because of the reclamation project nature of the pitch, but it's worth a shout due to the connections. The Vikings would also be selling him at a clear loss.
Retired QB Ryan Tannehill
Tannehill last played in 2023 and he's said his time in the NFL is behind him. But he never formally announced a retirement, unlike say Russell Wilson recently. He's been in the roles of both backup and Pro Bowl level starter. Bring him in for a workout and see if there's something still there at least.
Steelers QBs Will Howard/Mason Rudolph
The Steelers could keep four quarterbacks on the roster. They invested a third-round pick into Drew Allar and have Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph, plus Will Howard. But on the chance they make one of Rudolph or Howard available via trade, I don't mind swinging for a low day three draft selection.
Eagles QBs Tanner McKee/Andy Dalton
There could be an odd man out in the Eagles QB room considering the selection of Cole Payton. 38 year old veteran Andy Dalton has made starts in recent seasons. Tanner McKee has as well. If the Eagles are willing to reduce their asking price for McKee or are willing to listen on Dalton, I'd be interested.
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