However, the physical demands of the running back position, especially for a player who handled over 339 touches last season, mean that the 49ers may need to manage McCaffrey’s workload in 2024. Fortunately, head coach Kyle Shanahan has a reliable option in Jordan Mason, who is more than capable of stepping up when needed.
Jordan Mason: A Hidden Gem in the 49ers’ Backfield
CBS Sports NFL analyst Chris Trapasso recently highlighted Mason as a running back who could excel in a larger role if given the opportunity. Trapasso praised Shanahan’s offensive system, noting its effectiveness for running backs, regardless of their draft status.
“Mason, at a sturdy 5-foot-11 and over 220 pounds, possesses remarkable agility for his size and combines it with effortless power,” Trapasso explained. “He can unquestionably serve as a valuable RB2, and if the situation arises, he could even fill in as San Francisco’s RB1. It might be time to give this underutilized talent more than just 40 carries in a season.”
The 49ers’ Backfield in 2024
Last season, Mason rushed for 206 yards and three touchdowns, showing glimpses of his potential. With McCaffrey dealing with minor injuries toward the end of the 2023 season and the 49ers entering 2024 with high expectations, Mason could see an expanded role in the offense. This could not only help preserve McCaffrey’s health but also provide the 49ers with another powerful weapon in their quest for success.
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