Minnesota Vikings Strengthen Backfield with Jordan Mason Trade

A Bold Move to Boost the Running Game The Minnesota Vikings have made a significant move to reinforce their rushing attack by acquiring running back Jordan Mason from the San Francisco 49ers. The trade, reported by NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Adam Schefter, involves a late-round pick swap in the 2025 NFL Draft—San Francisco moves up from No. 187 to No. 160—while Minnesota sends a 2026 sixth-round pick to the 49ers. This calculated move signals Minnesota’s commitment to strengthening its backfield.

Contract Details: A Valuable Investment Mason, who received a second-round restricted free agency tender from the 49ers, has signed a two-year contract with the Vikings worth up to $12 million. The deal includes over $7 million in fully guaranteed money, ensuring that Mason will play a crucial role in Minnesota’s offense. His addition creates a formidable duo with recently re-signed veteran Aaron Jones, giving the Vikings a powerful one-two punch at running back.

Mason’s Impact in San Francisco Last season, Mason stepped up in a big way for the 49ers when star running back Christian McCaffrey was sidelined due to injury. Appearing in 12 games and starting six, Mason recorded three 100-yard rushing performances within the first four weeks. His standout game came in Week 1 against the New York Jets, where he rushed for a career-high 147 yards on 28 carries. Despite missing the final five games due to an ankle injury, Mason finished the season with 789 rushing yards, three touchdowns, and an impressive 5.2 yards per carry.

Minnesota’s Offensive Reshuffle The Vikings’ decision to acquire Mason is a clear sign of their intention to upgrade their running game. While Aaron Jones led the team with 1,138 rushing yards last season, Minnesota lacked a reliable secondary option. Cam Akers, the team’s second-leading rusher with just 297 yards, struggled with consistency. As a result, the Vikings’ ground game ranked 19th in the NFL. Mason’s arrival not only adds much-needed depth but also reduces the workload on Jones, who is entering his age-30 season.

How the Vikings’ Backfield Shapes Up With Mason now in the mix, the Vikings’ running back depth chart takes on a new look. Jones remains the lead back, while Mason is expected to take on a significant role. Ty Chandler and Zavier Scott provide additional depth, giving Minnesota a well-rounded rushing attack. Meanwhile, San Francisco will move forward with McCaffrey, Isaac Guerendo, Patrick Taylor Jr., and Israel Abanikanda in their backfield.

San Francisco’s Perspective: A Strategic Roster Move For the 49ers, the trade reflects their confidence in their running back depth and a continued strategy of accumulating draft assets. With McCaffrey fully healthy and Guerendo emerging late last season, San Francisco felt comfortable parting ways with Mason. Additionally, with a deep running back class in the 2025 NFL Draft, the 49ers may look to add another young talent in the coming months.

A Win-Win Situation for Mason and the Vikings For Jordan Mason, this trade represents a major win. Not only does he secure a multi-year contract, but he also lands in a system where he can play a crucial role alongside Jones. The Vikings, on the other hand, acquire a proven rusher to solidify their backfield, adding another dimension to their offense as they prepare for the 2025 season.

With Mason in purple and gold, Minnesota’s ground game looks primed for success. The Vikings’ front office has sent a clear message: they are serious about improving their rushing attack and making a push for a deeper playoff run in the upcoming season.