Vikings RB Jordan Mason making strong case for bigger role in training camp

The Minnesota Vikings could face a difficult backfield decision if Jordan Mason continues his impressive training camp. Mason is building a case for an expanded role as Minnesota incorporates more wide-zone concepts into its running game.

Aaron Jones remains part of Minnesota’s expected backfield rotation, but the former Georgia Tech standout has distinguished himself with forceful runs. The showing could strengthen Mason’s case for more touches after he led the Vikings in rushing last season.

Mason recorded 758 yards and six touchdowns on 159 carries across 16 games in 2025, averaging 4.8 yards per attempt. Jones, who appeared in 12 games, rushed for 548 yards and two touchdowns on 132 carries while averaging 4.2 yards. He also caught 28 passes for 199 yards and another score, maintaining a clear advantage in the passing game.

During Friday’s episode of the Purple Daily Podcast, Mason received high praise for outperforming Jones through the early stages of training camp.

“the way [Mason] is moving around, the way that he runs. I really like Jordan Mason as a fit in the new run scheme that the Vikings have with their new wide zone concepts.”

That evaluation aligns with broader expectations for the Vikings’ offense under assistant head coach Frank Smith. The Vikings have spent time adjusting their running game with Smith’s assistance. Mason’s physical style appears especially well suited to those wider zone concepts.

Jones remains the more accomplished receiving option and should maintain an important role. Expanding Mason’s responsibilities would not require Minnesota to diminish Jones’ value. Instead, the Vikings could create a more balanced workload that maximizes both backs’ strengths while helping preserve the 31-year-old Jones throughout the season.

Mason’s production and apparent scheme fit make his push for additional early-down opportunities difficult to dismiss. If his strong showing continues, Minnesota could enter the regular season with a genuine competition for carries rather than a firmly established backfield order.

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