Weeks ago, Minnesota acquired Mason and a 2025 sixth-round pick from the San Francisco 49ers for a 2025 sixth-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick. Since then, fans and analysts alike have attempted to project what kind of workload Mason will receive in the upcoming season. O’Connell’s comments from the NFL’s 2025 League Meetings confirmed what some assumed.

“I do think Jordan’s gonna bring something to the table in those short-yardage situations, those goal-line situations, goal-to-go, where we’ve really left a lot to be desired as a football team,” O’Connell said.

Most teams in the modern NFL opt to rotate through multiple running backs during games, and the Vikings are no different. Mason’s skillset will (ideally) complement what veteran tailback Aaron Jones brings to the table as they share opportunities. Jones made a name for himself as an explosive runner and reliable receiver in his seven seasons with the Green Bay Packers, continuing to add to his resume last year with the Minnesota Vikings. He remains an effective player, but now that Jones is in his 30s, he’s no longer viewed as a workhorse option. Instead, and as his head coach alluded to, Minnesota hopes to preserve Jones in the final years of his career by lightening his workload. We can safely assume he’ll continue to be their featured back in passing situations, but Mason will get plenty of early down and short yardage work.

Mason set career-highs across the board last season in relief of Christian McCaffrey, totaling 880 yards from scrimmage while averaging 5.4 yards per touch. Mason’s durability issues loom, but when active he’s proven to be an efficient runner. He signed a new contract with the Vikings post-trade and now has two seasons to prove his worth to his new team.

Author: Trey Kroll (@TreyK_FB)