Who is Vikings' J.J. McCarthy's secret weapon in 2025?

J.J McCarthy's 2025 season will be largely judged by what he's able to do in the passing game. On top of trying to get the Minnesota Vikings back into the playoffs, McCarthy will have to show that he can take advantage of targets like Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson.

But one of McCarthy's best friends in 2025 could be a guy who he spends more time handing the ball off to than throwing to. Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports believes that running back Jordan Mason, acquired via trade this offseason from the 49ers, is McCarthy's "secret weapon" in 2025.

Aaron Jones is the lightning of Kevin O'Connell's backfield, but the Vikings appear determined to utilize Mason, the ex-San Francisco 49ers fill-in, as a short-yardage chain-mover. If that takes pressure off McCarthy on key downs and in the red area, it'll be a win.

The Vikings were intentional in improving the running game this offseason, adding guards Will Fries and Donovan Jackson, as well as center Ryan Kelly. Mason brings a different running style to Jones, and he will be counted on to help the Vikings convert short-yardage situations that they have struggled with in the past few seasons.

It may not show up in McCarthy's box score stats when he hands off to Mason. But the pressure will be taken off McCarthy every time he gives the ball to Mason.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Who is J.J. McCarthy's secret weapon in 2025?