Jordan Mason
Summary
Jordan Mason was an undrafted free agent in 2022 out of Georgia Tech. Mason is a dynamic running back whose strengths lie in his efficiency, effective yards-after-contact, and versatile backfield role. His primary risks are health/injury concerns, lesser involvement in the passing game so far, and whether he can prove himself as an every-down option. With continued progression, he has the tools to be a significant contributor in the NFL.
Strengths
Explosiveness & yards after contact: Mason has shown the ability to create big gains, and advanced metrics highlight his strength after the initial contact. For instance, he averaged ~63.2 yards after contact per start, ranking third among RBs last season. PFF+
Efficient run-game production: His 2024 season included a 5.2 yards-per-carry average, which is strong especially for someone who was not the fullback of the offense for the entire season. San Francisco 49ers
Strong lower-body build for his size: At around 223-230 lbs and with a compact frame, Mason combines sufficient mass with athleticism, allowing him to run effectively between the tackles and bounce runs to the edge.
Versatility and role fit: He has shown ability to contribute both as a primary runner when called on (as in 2024) and potentially as a complementary back in a rotation. This flexibility increases his value in a modern backfield. CBS Sports
Weaknesses
Durability / injury concerns: His 2024 season ended early due to a high ankle sprain. Being able to stay healthy and available will be essential if he is to take on a larger role. New York Post
Pass-catching / receiving involvement: While he has some receiving stats, he is not yet highly productive in the passing game. A well-rounded top back often contributes more as a receiver.
Defining himself as a feature back: Given that he has shared backfield time and did not play full season as primary RB, there may be questions about whether he can handle a full workload without drop-off.
Explosive breakaway speed & vision variability: While efficient, Mason may not yet demonstrate the same “home-run” burst seen from some of the elite backs in the league — occasional subtle vision or bounce-to-edge adjustments may be less polished than the very best.
Fit & Outlook
Jordan Mason is a promising young running back who fits well into a modern NFL offense that uses multiple backs, emphasizes efficiency, and values backs who can finish runs and work in a rotation. With the Vikings, he appears poised to complement or even challenge the lead role in the backfield. If Mason stays healthy, improves his receiving skills, and earns consistent usage, he has the potential to become more than just a complementary back — potentially a high-value starter. If injuries or role limitations continue, he may settle into a high-quality rotational role rather than being an every-down feature.