Letting Jordan Mason Go Was the Right Move

 

In a surprising move, the San Francisco 49ers chose to part ways with running back Jordan Mason—a decision that, in hindsight, seems to have benefited both Mason and the team.

Mason’s Impact and Opportunity

Jordan Mason first caught attention when he stepped up in Week 1, filling in for an injured Christian McCaffrey. Over the first seven weeks of the season, Mason emerged as one of the league’s leading rushers, his running style evoking memories of Marshawn Lynch with his aggressive, powerful plays. Despite his promising performance, Mason's role with the 49ers was always going to be limited. Originally signed to a modest three-year contract in 2022, his annual base salary was under $900,000. While he demonstrated significant potential, the lack of consistent opportunity prevented him from fully showcasing his abilities.

Why the Decision Was Inevitable

The arrival of a fully healthy Christian McCaffrey next season would have relegated Mason to a backup role. In a competitive environment where every roster spot counts, Mason’s rising value meant that his continued presence on the team could hinder the development of other key players. With his performance peaking and expectations rising, keeping him on a low-cost contract was no longer a strategic fit for the 49ers.

The Trade Benefits Mason and the 49ers

For Mason, this move opened up new opportunities. He is now set to serve as a backup to Aaron Jones, who is known for his injury-prone history. Moreover, his new contract promises a significant pay increase, with a base salary exceeding $5 million annually, reflecting his improved market value.

On the other side, the 49ers benefited financially by parting with a player who had outgrown his initial contract. With upcoming contract extensions on the horizon for key figures like Brock Purdy and the rumored extension for George Kittle, the organization is focused on saving costs wherever possible. The emergence of young talents, such as Isaac Guerendo, who offers a combination of size, speed, and pass-catching ability, further diminished Mason’s value. Additionally, the team secured extra draft capital through a pick swap and an additional sixth-round pick in 2026—resources that are crucial as the team navigates an offseason of significant changes.

A Strategic Roster Move

While Jordan Mason’s departure might be felt by fans, it underscores the 49ers’ commitment to building a competitive and financially sustainable roster. The move reflects a broader strategy: recognizing when a player’s potential has been maximized elsewhere, and reallocating resources to bolster the team’s future prospects.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, tough decisions are part of the game. Letting Mason go, though difficult, ultimately positions both the player and the team for greater success in the long run.

Adapted from 49ers Webzone’s article “Letting Jordan Mason Go Was The Right Move”