O’Connell emphasized that Jones excelled in “1a-1b backfield structure” and the team brought in Jordan Mason to complement Jones. He continued that Mason will “bring something to the table” in short-yardage situations and goal-line scenarios. Meanwhile, Jones will be used more in early-down, third-down, and passing-down situations. The Vikings backfield is shaping up to have both backs useful in fantasy. Jones will have more value as a pass-catcher while Mason will be a downhill runner with goal-line utility.

The Vikings receive Mason and the No. 187 overall pick in this year’s draft, while the 49ers get pick No. 160 in this year’s draft and a 2026 sixth-rounder. After trading for Mason, the Vikings immediately signed him to a two-year deal that includes $7 million in guaranteed money and a max value of $12 million, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Mason, who will be 26 at the start of next season, played a key role for the 49ers last season during Christian McCaffrey’s time away. Playing as a near-every down back, Mason rushed for 153-789-3 last season while also catching 11 passes for another 91 yards. Mason appeared in 12 games last season but didn’t see the field again after a Week 13 game against the Bills. This trade creates an immediate threat to Aaron Jones’ fantasy value this season, as the Vikings now have two formidable backs to swap in and out of a committee — something they said they hoped to do more of in 2025. As far as the 49ers are concerned, Isaac Guerendo immediately moves into the RB2 role behind Christian McCaffrey. Assuming the 49ers don’t add another back of note in the draft or free agency, Guerendo should be viewed as one of the top handcuffs in fantasy, especially after the strong rushing numbers he posted as a rookie (84-420-4) in limited action. Both Jones and Mason will have fantasy relevance this season, but Jones could still have the inside edge to offer more upside as the likely third-down/pass-catching back.

The tender is worth $5.3 million for one year. Mason can negotiate with other teams and the 49ers are free to match any offer he gets. If they choose not to, the team signing him gives up a second-round pick. For that reason, it’s safe to say Mason is sticking in the Bay Area for 2025. With Elijah Mitchell gone, Mason will compete with second-year back Isaac Guerendo for RB2 duties. The backup to Christian McCaffrey has some value as an insurance option for fantasy purposes, but it’s tough to say who that player is before the offseason program ramps up. It’s a waiting game for early fantasy drafters.

Mason and Christian McCaffrey (knee) both landed on injured reserve on Monday, paving the way for Isaac Guerendo to become a league-winner in fantasy leagues. Mason won’t be eligible to return in the regular season, meaning his year ends with a rushing line of 153-789-3. He served as the 49ers’ bell cow back for eight weeks while McCaffrey was out, and was one of the top running backs in fantasy during that two-month stretch. Mason will be a restricted free agent next offseason, but could end up playing for another team in 2025 if the 49ers don’t match any qualifying offers that may come his way. Mason will be 26 at the start of next season and has been a lightly-used back during the first three years of his career.