The inspiring tale of undrafted San Francisco 49ers running back Jordan Mason stepping up in place of the injured star Christian McCaffrey and leading his team to a significant victory might not be entirely as it seemed.

During an interview with ESPN’s Lisa Salters following the Niners’ 32-19 win against the New York Jets on Monday night, where Mason achieved a personal best of 147 rushing yards and a touchdown, he was asked when he realized he would be starting for McCaffrey.

“Maybe Friday, Friday night,” Mason replied. “Something like that.”

However, Jets players and coaches only learned of McCaffrey’s inactivity about an hour before the game when it was officially announced due to a calf injury.

After the game, Niners head coach Kyle Shanahan contradicted Mason’s statement, explaining that the team still believed McCaffrey might play as he warmed up.

“It was simply the same issue that had been bothering him all week,” Shanahan told the media afterward. “There was a bit too much uncertainty today, so it became a game-time decision. After speaking with him, it was still an issue. It seemed wise to keep him out, and I’m glad we did.”

When Mason was asked again about when he found out he was starting during his postgame conference, his response was notably different from his previous one.

“That question right there” Mason replied, hesitating. “That’s exactly why I dislike talking to the media. If you misstate something, then I don’t know. Just skip that question.”

NFL regulations allow teams significant flexibility in their reporting of players’ injury status. However, due to the league’s lucrative partnerships with gambling and fantasy sports organizations, this information is intended to be public knowledge.

McCaffrey was deemed questionable on the official injury report of the Niners until he was announced as inactive for the Monday night game.