The 90th overall pick of the 2026 NFL draft took the field for the first time in his 49ers career. The early returns were promising. The rushing was fine: 8 carries for 33 yards, 4.1 yards per carry with a long of 9 yards. His second carry was a smooth third-and-short where he shook a flashing linebacker to convert. Black looked to have the combination of decisiveness in the hole and the short-area quickness to execute it that the scouting community noted in him as a prospect. As far as the eye test goes, the kid also appears to have that “it factor” physically.
More importantly, as it pertains to his odds to secure the 49ers RB2 role, Black executed two fantastic blitz pickups at pivotal moments. One came on 2nd and 5, allowing Brock Purdy to get the ball out to Deebo Samuel; the other on 3rd and 4. The former involved taking on a car crash with 225-LB Daiyan Henley, the latter he correctly keyed onto a corner blitz. Equally important to what they do with the ball in their hands, pass pro at the NFL level is often the primary determinant of rookie running-back reps. On both accounts, it’s looking good for Black. Albeit quite early on– 20 snaps in to be precise. It feels like he’ll take hold as Christian McCaffrey’s direct backup, if he hasn’t done so already. Time will tell, but I’m bullish. Very bullish.
Final note: Draft him as the CMC handcuff with confidence over the next two to three weeks in your fantasy leagues. There’s a very real possibility Kaelon is now the biggest upside swing you can possibly take in your RB5 spot.