Christian McCaffrey #23 of the San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers‘ 2024 season has been marred by injuries, particularly at the running back position. Elijah Mitchell, initially slated as Christian McCaffrey’s backup, was sidelined before the season began due to a severe hamstring injury. Placed on season-ending injured reserve at the roster cutdown deadline, Mitchell’s absence was a significant blow to the depth chart. Compounding the issue, McCaffrey has yet to play this season, sidelined with tendonitis in both Achilles tendons. Though the 49ers are hopeful McCaffrey will return in November, the backfield has been patchwork at best.
Jordan Mason Shines, but Exits with Injury
Stepping into the void left by Mitchell and McCaffrey, Jordan Mason has been exceptional in relief. However, during Thursday night’s 36-24 win over the Seattle Seahawks, Mason suffered a left shoulder injury after being tackled by Seahawks defensive lineman Jarran Reed in the second quarter. He returned briefly in the third quarter, playing only one snap before the pain forced him to exit for the remainder of the game. Despite his shortened night, Mason still managed 73 rushing yards on nine carries.
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan provided some clarity postgame:
“Just in case of an emergency, [Mason] stayed available. He thought he was going to be alright, went back in, and it just hurt him too much, so he went out … and then he was out just in case of an emergency.”
https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1844764745993183543?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
Avoiding a Serious Setback
Fortunately for the 49ers, early reports suggest Mason may have avoided a serious injury. According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, Mason is believed to have suffered an AC joint sprain in his shoulder, which, while painful, is not considered severe. Mason will undergo further testing to confirm the diagnosis, but the 49ers are optimistic that he may not miss significant time.
Who Steps Up if Mason is Out?
If Mason is sidelined for any amount of time, the next man up for the 49ers is rookie running back Isaac Guerendo. Drafted in the fourth round after posting the fastest 40-yard dash at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine (4.33 seconds), Guerendo has flashed his big-play ability. In the victory over Seattle, Guerendo rushed for 99 yards on ten carries, including a blistering 76-yard run that showcased his speed. On the season, he’s totaled 140 rushing yards on 22 carries.
Another potential candidate to step in is Patrick Taylor Jr. The former Green Bay Packers back has primarily served as a depth option but saw some action against the Seahawks, rushing for 16 yards on five carries. At 6’2″ and 217 pounds, Taylor offers a power-running style that could complement Guerendo’s speed if needed.
What’s Next for the 49ers?
With the 49ers navigating a treacherous injury path, the health of their running backs will be crucial in their quest for success this season. McCaffrey’s potential return in November could offer relief, but until then, the team will have to rely on the depth of its roster. Whether Mason can avoid missing games or if Guerendo and Taylor Jr. need to step up remains to be seen, but the 49ers will need their running game to stay afloat in a competitive NFC West.
