Jordan Mason Surpasses McCaffrey’s Early Season Performance with Record-Making Rush Yards

In an unexpected turn of events, San Francisco 49ers‘ running back Jordan Mason has emerged as a key player this NFL season, surpassing his renowned All-Pro teammate, Christian McCaffrey, in rushing achievements over the first five weeks. Mason managed to establish a new franchise benchmark by accumulating 536 rushing yards, the highest ever for a 49ers running back through the first five games of a season.

During the recent matchup against the Arizona Cardinals at Levi's Stadium, Mason carried the ball 14 times for a total of 89 rushing yards. This impressive performance not only contributed significantly to the team’s victory but also solidified Mason’s position in the franchise’s record books.

According to 49ers’ game notes, Mason’s current rushing yardage is part of a comparison that includes notable names from the team’s history. His achievements have outpaced former records held by running backs such as Charlie Garner in 2000, with 500 rushing yards, and J.D. Smith in 1959, with 489 rushing yards. Another legend, Joe Perry, had accumulated 487 yards back in 1953 during the first five games.

Mason, who was undrafted, has capably filled the void left by McCaffrey, who completed the 2023 campaign with 1,459 rushing yards. Comparing statistics through the opening games, Mason’s results indicate a potential trajectory to surpass franchise milestones, perhaps even targeting Frank Gore’s longstanding record of 1,695 rushing yards in a season, set in 2006.

In addition to hitting 1,000 career rushing yards on only 188 attempts, showcasing an average of 5.3 yards per attempt, Mason’s remarkable journey is seen as an inspirational narrative within the NFL community. Notably, should Mason maintain his average over the entire season, he is projected to exceed McCaffrey’s previous season total significantly.

The 49ers franchise is optimistic about Mason’s future contributions though the team acknowledges his role as the primary running back could evolve if McCaffrey returns to the playing field, as he has been sidelined due to Achilles tendinitis.

Mason’s current performance mirrors another pivotal point in his season. He tied the franchise record for most 100-yard games in the initial five games, potentially setting himself apart with four such achievements by the time the upcoming game against the Cardinals concludes. If achieved, Mason will not only set a personal and team record but will do so as an undrafted player, reminiscent of Pittsburgh Steelers’ Willie Parker.

The unfolding of Mason’s season feeds into the broader aspirations for the 49ers, who are looking beyond just these early successes to sustainable performance across the remaining games.