The Minnesota Vikings are making bold moves to enhance their running game as they gear up for the 2025 NFL season. Recently, they completed a trade to acquire running back Jordan Mason from the San Francisco 49ers. This transaction involved a swap of draft picks, with Minnesota receiving the No. 187 pick, while San Francisco gets the No. 160 pick, along with a sixth-round pick in 2026.
Mason’s arrival comes with a two-year contract worth over $7 million fully guaranteed, potentially rising to $12 million. This signing continues the Vikings’ strategy of bolstering their roster, especially after adding several key players to their defensive line and picking up offensive linemen Will Fries and Ryan Kelly earlier this week.
During his last season with the 49ers, Mason proved himself by rushing for 789 yards and scoring three touchdowns when fellow running back Christian McCaffrey was sidelined due to injuries. Although Mason faced some injuries himself, he initially performed well by exceeding 100 rushing yards in three of his first four games in 2024.
His addition is seen as complementary to Aaron Jones, who recently signed a two-year extension. While Jones often brings the speed, Mason is anticipated to add strength to the running game. The Vikings struggled significantly on the ground last season, ranking 19th in rushing, with Jones leading the team with a standout 1,138 rushing yards and Cam Akers following at just 297 yards.
The Vikings view Mason as a strategic move to reinforce their running game, particularly crucial for the development of their second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy. On the flip side, the 49ers have recently let go of several significant players, including star wide receiver Deebo Samuel and key defenders, signaling a possible shift in their roster strategy as they plan for the future.
As the offseason progresses, Minnesota’s front office is keen on creating a more formidable team, and the addition of Mason is seen as a step in the right direction.
