The San Francisco 49ers have faced numerous injuries this season, impacting even their backup players. Star running back Christian McCaffrey, last season’s Offensive Player of the Year, has yet to play due to a leg injury, but backup Jordan Mason has stepped up effectively.
Mason sustained a shoulder injury during a Week 6 victory over the Seattle Seahawks, which forced him to exit the “Thursday Night Football” game. However, a UCSF Health doctor noted that Mason’s injury doesn’t carry a risk of worsening; his return depends on managing pain and improving his range of motion. Dr. Brian Feeley explained that the main concern is Mason’s ability to protect the ball rather than the risk of further injury.
In six games, Mason has accumulated 609 rushing yards, ranking second in the NFL, and has scored three touchdowns while averaging 5.3 yards per carry. The 49ers continue to prioritize their running game, ranking fourth in total rushing attempts, but they are also passing more frequently than in previous seasons. They currently stand 16th in total passing attempts, a notable increase compared to last year when they were last in the league.
In Week 7, San Francisco will host the Kansas City Chiefs, who defeated them in last season’s Super Bowl. If Mason is unable to play, the 49ers may struggle, as they lack experienced rushing options behind him. They’ll need him to manage his pain effectively if they hope to seek revenge against Patrick Mahomes and his team.
