These 5 players must become 49ers' next batch of superstars
By Peter Panacy
No. 2: 49ers running back Jordan Mason
2023 might be the year in which a former undrafted free agent, running back Jordan Mason, goes from the ranks of being respected within Niners' fans circles into becoming a known commodity across the NFL.
Yes, San Francisco has an All-Pro running back in Christian McCaffrey. And McCaffrey will take the lion's share of touches for the bulk of the upcoming season, provided he stays healthy.
However, Kyle Shanahan has long deployed a platoon-like system at running back, and that'll be necessary to keep McCaffrey fresh anyway.
So, that prompts the question: Should someone like oft-injured Elijah Mitchell be the No. 2 running back behind McCaffrey, or should it be Mason?
Read more: Should Elijah Mitchell or Jordan Mason be Niners' No. 2 running back?
Mitchell, who saw action in only 11 games his rookie year and just five last season, could easily lose out in the competition to support McCaffrey.
If Mason wins that role, he'll receive plenty of time within the spotlight as a reward.