To conclude Week 1, the New York Jets faced off against the San Francisco 49ers on the road. Prior to kickoff, it was revealed that Christian McCaffrey would be unavailable for the game. The All-Pro RB had been dealing with a calf injury for the past month and was not deemed fit to play in their season opener.
This late-breaking decision was made by the 49ers in order to protect McCaffrey. In his absence, third-year RB Jordan Mason was given the opportunity to make his first career start. Mason, who went undrafted from Georgia Tech, is currently in his third season with San Francisco. Running behind a formidable offensive line, Mason put up impressive numbers with 28 carries for 147 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Jordan Mason shines in his breakout game on Monday night in his first career start
Jordan Mason Appreciation post 🔥
28 rushes, career high 147 yards rushing, 1 TD pic.twitter.com/aJbrkINtCb
— OurSF49ers (@OurSf49ers) September 10, 2024
During the training camp, RB Christian McCaffrey had been dealing with a calf injury that caused him to miss some time. San Francisco had given him a month to recover and rehab in hopes of having him ready for Week 1. Despite signs pointing towards McCaffrey starting the game against the Jets, his status changed dramatically just an hour before kickoff when he was ruled out. His limited participation in practice the previous week had left him questionable for the game. Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network reported McCaffrey’s confidence in his availability for Week 1, but ultimately, the All-Pro RB did not take the field.
Fortunately, McCaffrey’s absence did not hinder the 49ers’ performance against the Jets. Jordan Mason stepped up in his place and delivered a standout performance, rushing for a career-high 147 yards and a touchdown on 27 carries. He also added a five-yard reception to his stat line. San Francisco’s offense functioned effectively without McCaffrey, putting up 32 points against the Jets. It was a strong statement victory in Week 1 for the 49ers, despite missing arguably the best RB in the league. The team will be traveling to face Sam Darnold and the Minnesota Vikings in Week 2.
