The exodus out of San Francisco continues. The 49ers have agreed to trade running back Jordan Mason to the Minnesota Vikings, his agency told ESPN. In exchange, the Niners receive a 2026 sixth-round pick. Alongside this, both clubs are swapping Day 3 selections in the 2025 NFL Draft. The 49ers now own No. 160 overall, while the Vikings receive No. 187.
In addition to the trade, the Vikings have also agreed to a two-year contract with Mason, including over $7 million fully guaranteed and a maximum value of $12 million. Earlier, the 49ers placed a second-round tender on Mason, a restricted free agent. Initially, this would have earned Mason $5.3 million for the upcoming season, but this was altered with his transfer to Minnesota.
The 25-year-old joined the NFL as an undrafted free agent from Georgia Tech in 2022. Until now, he had spent his entire career with the 49ers, totaling 1,375 yards from scrimmage and seven touchdowns. His 2024 season was notably productive, registering 789 rushing yards and three touchdowns, along with 11 receptions for 91 yards.
With fellow back Aaron Jones (Achilles tendonitis) sidelined, Mason significantly contributed to the San Francisco backfield. However, his output diminished after Jones’s return, and an ankle sprain in Week 13 led to him being placed on injured reserve for the remainder of the season.
Transitioning to the Vikings, Mason joins a backfield that now features Aaron Jones, who re-signed with Minnesota on a two-year, $20 million extension. Mason is positioned as a quality backup and will contribute to the team effectively.
Vikings: Grade B-
Minnesota secures a competent backup for Jones, who is entering his 30s. Mason has shown ability in carrying the load when needed, evidenced by his three games over 100 rushing yards last season, including a notable performance against Minnesota.
49ers: Grade C+
While the 49ers have depth at the running back position with McCaffrey as the primary option, their decision to trade Mason reflects a strategic move for further draft capital in a year deep with running back talent. They secure a sixth-rounder next year and move into the middle of the fifth round this year, which is considered a reasonable trade-off.
