Who will be Jordan Mason's backup? Exploring 49ers' options after RB suffers injury vs Seahawks

The San Francisco 49ers have done it. On Thursday night, they defeated the Seattle Seahawks 36-24 to claim the lead in the NFC West, thanks to an impressive performance by quarterback Brock Purdy, who completed 18 of his 28 attempts for 255 yards and three touchdowns (two to tight George Kittle) without throwing any interceptions.

However, during the game, the 49ers suffered a significant blow when running back Jordan Mason injured his shoulder in the second quarter. Though he later returned to the field, even surpassing Charlie Garner's record for most yards in the first six games in a season in franchise history, he is now listed as doubtful to play their next game — a marquee Super Bowl LVIII rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs.

With Christian McCaffrey still out with a leg injury and Elijah Mitchell out because of a hamstring issue, coach Kyle Shanahan finds himself running low on rushers. So, who can he turn to?

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49ers option 1: Isaac Guerendo

San Francisco 49ers v Los Angeles Rams - Source: Getty

Isaac Guerendo had the best game of his rookie campaign so far on Thursday. After having only 41 yards on 12 carries in his first five games combined, he had 99 on 10, including a monstrous 76-yard explosion that set up Kyle Juszczyk's game-sealing touchdown.

At 6-foot-0 and 221 lbs, he has the potential to blend the qualities of a light and agile "lightning" back with those of a heavy, imposing "thunder" back. With further development and coaching, he can develop into a reliable option.

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49ers option 2: Patrick Taylor

NFL: OCT 06 Cardinals at 49ers - Source: Getty

Patrick Taylor has yet to post meaningful numbers as a 49er, but the potential is there. He had his best stretch in 2023 with the Green Bay Packers, where he recorded 141 yards on 32 carries across two stints.

Under Kyle Shanahan's system, he has a chance to thrive, especially with its emphasis on fluid running plays.

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49ers option 3: Ke'Shawn Vaughn

San Francisco 49ers v Las Vegas Raiders - Source: Getty

As of now, Ke'Shawn Vaughn is on the practice squad — a surprising position for a former Super Bowl. In 2021, proved to be a decent, if underutilized, reliever for Leonard Fournette.

Shanahan's system is built on versatility, which should suit him very well. He can be deployed as either a primary running back or as a slot man whenever Kyle Juszczyk is off the field and the set calls for three pass-catchers.