49ers Pumping Up Trey Lance Ahead Of Potential Start

San Francisco 49ers rookie quarterback Trey Lance could make his second NFL start on Sunday against the Houston Texans. 

The rookie QB's first start came in Week 5's matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, and the fate of his second start depends heavily on the status of starting QB Jimmy Garoppolo's thumb.

Garoppolo suffered a thumb sprain on his throwing hand in the second quarter of Thursday's loss against the Tennessee Titans, which affected his performance in the remainder of the contest.

The team said Garoppolo's absence in the team's first practice after the loss gave third-overall pick Lance first-team reps during Monday's session, with the opportunity to see more playing time should the starting quarterback miss multiple practices.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the injury during Monday's media session and said the rookie QB has made significant strides in practice, giving the team confidence in him should Garoppolo miss time.

"I think this last month Trey has had his best consecutive four weeks of practice since we've had him," Shanahan said. "He's had a number of good days and he's had some bad days like most guys do. But as far as his consistency, I feel like this last month has been his best."

ESPN Senior NFL insider Adam Schefter reported Monday that the veteran quarterback suffered what is thought to be “a more significant injury” than a right thumb sprain, though.

The 49ers (8-7) will host the Texans (4-11) on Sunday for Week 17's matchup at Levi's Stadium with kickoff set for 1:05 PST.

Follow Meg Turner on Twitter @Megnturner_ and Instagram @Megnturner.

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