San Francisco 49ers running back Jordan Mason recently reflected on his challenging start in the NFL, sharing details of his initial struggles with running backs coach Bobby Turner.
"I'd be lying if I didn't tell you that we started off on a downhill [path]," Mason told reporters. "We were not on good terms at all, and we just had to get it going. I had to learn his style. ... It just took me to growing up and getting in the system, and actually learning—just him—because he's an old-school coach. You gotta do things a certain way, and so, I had to switch up."
RELATED Jordan Mason reflects on rough start with 49ers coach
Mason admitted that transitioning to the NFL was difficult, and he often found himself unsure of the answers during meetings. However, his dedication and growth have since improved his understanding and performance.
Turner spoke to reporters on Monday and shared his perspective on the early challenges with Mason.
"He needed to grow up, become a pro," Turner said. "And so, that all involves just becoming a pro, not knowing what's expected of you. I'm very detailed, very demanding. Not that other coaches aren't. But not only answering, but I want the correct answer, etcetera.
"So when he says we didn't hit it off, it wasn't like personality, etcetera. Yes, I wasn't happy with the results, and obviously, we are now. But the bottom line is he grew up and learned how to become a pro."
Part of Mason's development involved investing in a $3,000 JUGS machine this offseason to enhance his pass-catching skills. He aimed to emulate the versatility of starting running back Christian McCaffrey.
"I was like, if I want to be something close to Christian, I got to start catching something," Mason explained. "So that was me investing in myself."
The improvement in Mason's game has been evident.
"No doubt he improved, and that was an area that he wanted to become better at," Turner remarked. "Obviously, [it's an area] we want him to become better at. The more you can do, obviously, you're going to help the 49ers and himself."
Rookie Cody Schrader impressing
The 49ers signed Mason as an undrafted free agent in 2022, and they might have discovered another gem in this year's undrafted free-agent running back, Cody Schrader. Schrader has shown promise during training camp.
"I am happy with Cody, but I expected to feel that way, and I'm happy that you see it and feel that way," Turner said. "So we have great expectations for Cody."
When asked about his role in scouting Schrader, Turner replied, "I was definitely in the hunt, and I definitely was involved."
