49ers defensive leader expects breakthrough game from unknown RB

49ers defensive leader expects breakthrough game from unknown RB

Sep 9, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Jordan Mason (center) carries the ball against New York Jets defensive end Will McDonald IV (99) during the first quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Sep 9, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Jordan Mason (center) carries the ball against New York Jets defensive end Will McDonald IV (99) during the first quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Monday Night Football between the New York Jets and San Francisco 49ers marked the arrival of Jordan Mason. With Christian McCaffrey out for kickoff due to an ankle/Achilles injury, Mason not only filled in, but thrived in the 49ers backfield.

Mason fueled the 49ers offense, reaching a career-high 147 yards with a touchdown on 28 carries. The Georgia Tech product tore apart the Jets’ defense with a series of powerful runs through the belly of New York’s front seven.

After the game, Fred Warner was asked about Mason. The 49ers defensive captain wasn’t surprised by the undrafted running back’s performance on Monday against the Jets.

I know it sounds crazy, but I really expect that from him. I love that he’s been training here this offseason — he’s chosen to train here with me and a couple of other linebackers, Flan and Curtis. We compete here. Even in the offseason, I saw him with a different mindset, that he was going to be ready for his moment when it came. Throughout training camp, he’s obviously gotten a lot of reps, while Christian was out. Even though I’m not tackling him on the ground, I could still feel the physicality and saw it during preseason. He was ready for his moment. I’m so happy for him.

Via @NBCS49ers on Twitter:

Regardless of when McCaffrey is available again, Mason has rightfully carved out a role in Shanahan’s offense. If McCaffrey can’t return Sunday, Mason will likely have a heavy workload again in Week 2 against the Minnesota Vikings.

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This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers defensive leader expected breakout game from unknown RB