Derrick Mason Career Overview and NFL Statistics
Derrick Mason is a former NFL wide receiver who played for the Baltimore Ravens and New York Jets. His career totals include over 900 receptions, 12,000 receiving yards, and 68 touchdowns, placing him among the top receivers in league history. He spent the majority of his career with the Ravens from 2000 to 2010, where he became a central part of their offensive system. Mason was known for his route-running precision and consistency in high-pressure games, which made him a reliable target for quarterbacks like Steve McNair and Joe Flacco. His production peaked in the mid-2000s when he recorded multiple seasons with over 1,300 receiving yards. He retired after the 2011 season and later transitioned into coaching roles within the NFL. His career longevity and durability are often cited as key factors in his statistical achievements. For more details on his career trajectory, see Forbes.
Mason’s receiving yards rank him among the top 20 all-time in NFL history at the time of his retirement. He also holds the Ravens’ franchise record for most career receptions, a testament to his sustained excellence over a decade. His ability to maintain high catch rates and yards after catch made him a dual threat in both short and intermediate passing situations. He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2004, which aligns with his highest single-season yardage total. His career longevity was supported by a disciplined fitness regimen and adaptability to different offensive schemes. Mason’s stats are frequently referenced in discussions about the most consistent receivers of the 2000s. His performance in postseason games also adds to his legacy, with several clutch receptions in playoff contests. For additional franchise records, see ESPN.
Season-by-Season Performance and Key Milestones
Mason’s best statistical season came in 2005 when he recorded 102 receptions for 1,303 yards and 7 touchdowns. That year he led the Ravens in all major receiving categories and helped the team reach the AFC Championship game. His 2004 season also stood out with 83 receptions and over 1,100 yards, reinforcing his status as a top-tier receiver. He continued to produce at a high level through 2008, averaging over 90 catches per season during that stretch. His ability to stay healthy and avoid major injuries contributed to his sustained production across multiple seasons. Mason’s consistency made him a favorite target in critical third-down and red-zone situations. His performance against top defenses often exceeded league averages, highlighting his skill in high-level matchups. For more on his 2005 season, see Pro Football Reference.
In 2009 and 2010, Mason remained a key contributor despite changes in the Ravens’ quarterback room. He adapted to new offensive systems and continued to deliver reliable numbers, including multiple 100-yard games. His final seasons with the Jets in 2011 saw him contribute as a veteran presence in a receiving corps that included younger talents. He finished his career with over 1,200 total receptions, placing him in an elite group of NFL receivers. His career yards per reception average reflects his efficiency in gaining yardage after the catch. Mason’s milestones include reaching the 900-reception and 12,000-yard marks, which are rare achievements for wide receivers. His stats are often compared to other long-career receivers from the same era for context on his durability and production. For more on his career milestones, see