The San Francisco 49ers have been one of the NFL’s most dynamic teams in recent years, but their latest roster move has sent shockwaves through the fanbase. With the recent trade of running back Jordan Mason to the Minnesota Vikings, 49ers fans are now calling for a familiar face to return and fill the void in the backfield.
Mason, who led the 49ers in rushing yards during the 2024 season, was traded in exchange for a sixth-round draft pick. His departure leaves a significant gap in the team’s offensive depth, particularly in the running game. While Christian McCaffrey remains the star of the backfield, his recent injury struggles have raised concerns about the team’s ability to maintain a dominant ground attack throughout the upcoming season.
The Playmaker Fans Want Back
In the wake of Mason’s trade, speculation has begun to swirl about who the 49ers might bring in to reinforce the position. Among the names being floated by fans and analysts alike is a former 49ers playmaker who remains a free agent: Raheem Mostert.
Mostert, who last played for the Miami Dolphins, has long been a fan favorite in San Francisco. He played a crucial role in the team’s 2019 Super Bowl run, highlighted by a record-breaking NFC Championship Game performance against the Green Bay Packers, where he rushed for 220 yards and four touchdowns. His speed, vision, and ability to break big plays make him an enticing option for the 49ers, especially given his history with head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offensive system.
A Perfect Fit in Shanahan’s System?
Mostert’s familiarity with the 49ers’ playbook is one of the primary reasons why fans are clamoring for his return. Shanahan’s zone-run scheme thrives on speed and decisive cuts, both of which are hallmarks of Mostert’s running style. With Mason gone and uncertainty surrounding McCaffrey’s durability, adding Mostert back into the mix could provide an immediate boost to the offense.
Another factor that makes Mostert a viable option is his potential affordability. The veteran running back earned around $6 million in his last contract with Miami, making him a reasonable investment for a team that values versatility in the backfield. If the 49ers are looking for a short-term solution without breaking the bank, bringing Mostert back could be a smart move.
The Fan Reaction
On social media, 49ers fans have been vocal about their desire to see Mostert return. Many have pointed out that his explosive speed and ability to make game-changing plays were sorely missed in recent seasons. Others argue that with McCaffrey shouldering a heavy workload, having another veteran presence in the backfield could be essential for maintaining a balanced offense.
While there has been no official word from the 49ers’ front office regarding Mostert, the idea of a reunion remains a tantalizing possibility. As the NFL offseason progresses, the 49ers will need to make critical decisions to keep their Super Bowl hopes alive. Bringing back a playmaker like Mostert could be the move that helps them reach the next level.