As the future of quarterback Brock Purdy takes precedence as he plays out the final season of his rookie deal in 2025, there are other matters to consider.
Running back Jordan Mason will become a free agent this offseason unless the 49ers and his camp can agree on a new deal before March 12.
But the question is, does San Francisco want him back?
General Manager John Lynch spoke to the media about Mason - who has restricted free agent status - while attending the NFL Scouting Combine.
"Jordan played really well, so there are decisions to make," Lynch said. "We can low tender him because he wasn't drafted, but then you get nothing if someone makes an offer to him and you don't match. You can do the second round tender, or you can just agree to a deal. There are a number of different options that we're exploring.
"Jordan played at a really good level when Christian McCaffrey was out, so we'll see where that goes."
Since Mason is a restricted free agent, the 49ers have options. Without going into too much detail, the best route for San Francisco - assuming they want him back - is to utilize their "first right of refusal" with his restricted status and offer $3.2 million for next season.
That means any team that wants to sign Mason must match that figure, and then the 49ers would have a chance to match said offer. Or San Fran can just let him walk without any offer and let him sign for any figure with any other team.
But Mason could be an economic insurance policy in the event Christian McCaffrey continues to get injured.
Mason ran the ball 153 times for 789 yards across 12 games and six starts. He added three touchdowns on the ground. As productive as he was carrying the ball, he didn't get a lot done through the air. Mason caught 11 passes for 91 yards with no touchdowns.
One could guess the Niners would like more pass-catching productivity from their running back, but Lynch may think that can come. If not, the team will have to make a decision on Mason or decide on a replacement sooner than later.
