The Minnesota Vikings may have already passed the torch.
Aaron Jones is listed as their No. 1 running back on the RB depth chart. But Jordan Mason carried the load on Monday night in a comeback win over the Chicago Bears.
Jones, the long-time Packers star who had a career-high in touches in 2024 in his first season in Minnesota, is still a playmaker. His wheel route resulted in a 27-yard touchdown catch for Jones from J.j. McCarthy.
But Mason got the heavy rushing workload.
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The former 49ers RB, who was acquired in a trade this offseason, ran for 68 yards, including 54 after halftime.
"Mason gave the Vikings exactly what they needed Monday night, and what they've needed for much of coach Kevin O'Connell's tenure: a running back who can bulldoze his way to yards," ESPN's Kevin Seifert wrote on Tuesday. "Mason rushed for 68 yards in the Vikings' win over the Bears, 54 of which came after halftime during the team's comeback. O'Connell said Mason's hard running helped open up the passing lanes for quarterback J.J. McCarthy and helped lead to three touchdowns in the fourth quarter. Mason is technically the backup to starter Aaron Jones Sr., but he has already made a case for being their primary rusher."
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The Vikings will probably mix up this rotation game by game depending on whether a contest calls for more throwing or running.
They also might keep Jones fresh for later in the year before relying on him more heavily again.
But for now, it seems like Mason will have a key role, even if Jones is involved, too. It could be a strong two-headed backfield in Minnesota.
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