Many are curious about the 49ers’ injury updates, which put Christian McCaffrey and Jordan Mason on IR. Fans now wonder how the team will handle the rest of the NFL season without their key players.
Let’s explore Mason’s injury, how it impacts the 49ers’ depth chart, and what it means for the team’s future.
What happened to Jordan Mason?
The San Francisco 49ers’ emerging running back, Jordan Mason, sustained a high-ankle sprain during the team’s Week 13 loss to the Buffalo Bills. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the injury during a Monday press conference. Mason, who had played a significant role in the 49ers’ offense this season, will now join Christian McCaffrey on the injured reserve (IR) list. The sprain will sideline Mason for at least four games, leaving the possibility of his return for Week 18 if the 49ers make a postseason push.
Jordan Mason’s injury adds to the team’s backfield struggles. McCaffrey, the reigning AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year, also went on IR with a PCL injury from the same game. McCaffrey is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season. Mason stepped up for McCaffrey earlier in the season. He recorded 789 rushing yards and three touchdowns in 12 games. His absence leaves the 49ers’ running back unit severely depleted.
The 49ers’ running back woes extend beyond Mason and McCaffrey. Elijah Mitchell, expected to back up McCaffrey, injured his hamstring in training camp and was ruled out for the season. This leaves rookie Isaac Guerendo, a fourth-round pick, as the only active running back on the 53-man roster. The team plans to promote Patrick Taylor Jr. from the practice squad. They may also look for external players to strengthen their depth.
San Francisco sits at 5-7, last in the NFC West. The team faces a tough challenge to turn its season around. Injuries to key players like Mason and McCaffrey add to the challenge. The 49ers must now rely on unproven talent and quickly adjust their strategy.
