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49ers might need to send Trey Lance a thank-you card for win over Commanders

Former draft bust Trey Lance inadvertently helped save the day for the 49ers in Week 6 against the Washington Commanders..

By Zane Gelphman · Niner Noise

Published: Thursday, 22 October 2026 at 6:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Zane Gelphman argues the 49ers indirectly benefited from Trey Lance through a game-saving defensive stop against Washington.
Safety Malik Mustapha forced a crucial fourth-down turnover on downs by jarring the ball loose from Treylon Burks.
San Francisco originally selected Mustapha using the 2024 fourth-round draft pick acquired from trading Lance.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer Zane Gelphman argues that the San Francisco 49ers owe former quarterback Trey Lance credit for their narrow Week 6 victory over the Washington Commanders. Safety Malik Mustapha made a crucial, game-saving fourth-down tackle to force a turnover on downs, denying a go-ahead touchdown catch by Treylon Burks.

Gelphman notes that Mustapha was drafted using the 2024 fourth-round pick acquired by trading away Lance. The writer views Mustapha's defensive contributions in 2026 as an impactful consolation prize that helps offset the draft capital previously lost on Lance.

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49ers might need to send Trey Lance a thank-you card for win over Commanders

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