If you picked up San Francisco 49ers running back Jordan Mason for your fantasy team following Christian McCaffrey's injury, his contribution on Sunday night against the Dallas Cowboys could be his last significant fantasy football impact. NFL insider Ian Rapoport shared this caution on Friday morning, suggesting that McCaffrey appears on track to reclaim the bulk of in-game snaps at running back.
Mason has impressed in McCaffrey's absence, rushing for 667 yards and three touchdowns this season while averaging 5.2 yards per carry. However, he has been a limited participant in practice this week as he continues to recover from an AC joint sprain sustained in Week 6 against the Seattle Seahawks. Mason suited up on Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs and is expected to play this weekend.
"He had 14 carries (against the Chiefs), seemed fine," Rapoport said Friday morning on NFL Network. "I expect him to play. This actually might be the last game where Jordan Mason is the bell cow."
From @GMFB: While #49ers star WR Brandon Aiyuk is out, the #49ers could have two key skill players on Sunday night. pic.twitter.com/YXawbbzl1i
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 25, 2024
Head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed optimism that McCaffrey could return to practice during the bye week, potentially making him available for the 49ers' Week 10 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. McCaffrey, who has yet to play this season, landed on injured reserve due to bilateral Achilles tendinitis.
"The 49ers have a bye (after Sunday)," Rapoport continued. "Christian McCaffrey should start practicing, and there's a very good chance that McCaffrey is on the field November 10th for the 49ers' next game. If you have Jordan Mason in fantasy, this might be your last hurrah with this one."
Regarding wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who was hospitalized earlier this week with pneumonia, Rapoport indicated he could still suit up against the Cowboys. Samuel missed Wednesday's practice but was a limited participant on Thursday.
"It's a situation where, if he feels good enough, then he would be able to play," Rapoport noted. "The fact that he practiced yesterday means at least there is a good shot for him to be out there on Sunday."