Vikings Make Massive Trade With 49ers, Land RB

The San Francisco 49ers are trading running back Jordan Mason to the Minnesota Vikings, per ESPN's Adam Schefter. During Christian McCaffrey's extended absence due to injury, Mason played a crucial role for the 49ers last season.

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Mason is signing a two-year deal with the Vikings that includes over $7 million fully guaranteed upon signing. In return, the Vikings are sending a 2026 sixth-round pick to San Francisco.

The teams will also swap picks 160 and 187 this year. Earlier this week, the 49ers placed a second-round tender on Mason, who was a restricted free agent.

San Francisco acquired Mason as an undrafted rookie from Georgia Tech in 2022. He showed his value throughout the 2024 season as McCaffrey's injury woes propelled Mason as the 49ers' primary running back.

Mason did not squander his opportunity as he led the team in rushing last season. He recorded 789 yards and three touchdowns on 153 carries. He averaged 5.2 yards per carry and also caught 11 passes for 91 yards.

The departure of Mason signifies Isaac Guerendo will likely stand behind McCaffrey on San Francisco's depth chart. As for Minnesota, Mason joins a backfield led by veteran Aaron Jones.

The 25-year-old should prove to be a valuable asset for the Vikings next season.

The move by the 49ers is the latest of many in what appears to be a rebuilding phase for the franchise. General manager John Lynch recently stated the 49ers were looking to add around their core following a disappointing end to last season.

"Our thought has always been to grow the core and you supplement around that," Lynch said at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. "That's probably what we have to do a little more of this year."

The 49ers finished last in the NFC West with a 6-11 record, though injuries certainly contributed to their poor performance last season.

Thus far, the 49ers' offseason has seen many free agents sign elsewhere, including linebacker Dre Greenlaw and cornerback Charvarius Ward. Standout safety Talanoa Hufanga also left the Bay, an indication that defensive coordinator Robert Saleh has to rebuild the unit with so many players parting ways with the team.

There was speculation that longtime fullback Kyle Juszczyk would also leave San Francisco, but in a surprise twist, he took less money to sign with the 49ers on Saturday.

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