49ers preseason grades vs. Titans: Jordan Mason shines, run defense flops

Offensive Position Battle Grades

Running Game: Jordan Mason vs. the Field for RB2

Jordan Mason has come on strong in training camp, and with Elijah Mitchell nursing an injury, Saturday's game against the Titans was an opportunity for Mason to cement his lead to become the primary backup to superstar running back Christian McCaffrey.

In his only drive of the game, Mason dominated. He ran the ball six times for 37 yards, plowing his way to the end zone for the 49ers' first touchdown of the game. But most importantly for Mason, he showcased some finesse and feel for reading the hole that was equally important to demonstrate as he matures as a player.

The only thing that Mason was unable to do was corral a high pass from Brandon Allen, but he played amazingly well.

The rest of the 49ers running backs were not as successful. Beyond Mitchell still dealing with an injury, the duo of Cody Schraeder and old friend Matt Breida combined for fewer yards than Mason on the first drive. Part of that came from the 49ers offensive line making a strong push against the Tennesse's first-team defense only for the backups to falter against Tennesse's second-team, but part of that was just in their performance.

It may be early, but it seems that Mason might have already wrapped this battle up.

Jordan Mason's Grade: A+/The Field: C-

Passing Game: Making Sense of the WR Competition

With Brandon Aiyuk still holding in, Deebo Samuel and Jauan Jennings sitting, and both rookies Ricky Pearsall and Jacob Cowing hurt, the 49ers' deep reserves at receiver received ample opportunity to perform and try to fight for the final spots on the roster. Veterans such as Chris Conley took advantage of their brief time, but a few players who got extended runs were all over the table.

Fellow old friend Trent Taylor, part of the 49ers' inaugural draft class under Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch, was heavily involved in the new kickoff returns and the old punt returns but also was his old reliable self, getting open on third down and being sure-handed. Taylor may not have the athleticism to break many tackles, but he put forth a strong showing.

Tay Martin suffered a rather egregious drop early in the game but came on strong, finishing as the 49ers' leading receiver with 58 yards on five receptions. He showed a little bit of everything, but that drop will likely not go over well in the film room.

The big disappointment, out of the active players, would have to be Ronnie Bell, who did not make much of an impact in the return game, had a bad drop, and was caught on a holding penalty that killed a 49ers drive. Bell showcased a bit of skill last year as he came onto the season, even catching a touchdown against the New York Giants, but the former Michigan Wolverine is in a battle to make the roster and did not put forth a strong showing.

Conley, Taylor: B+/Martin: C+/Bell: D+