The Indiana Hoosiers made program history in the 2026 NFL Draft, with eight players selected — the most in school history. Among those players was former running back Kaelon Black, whom the San Francisco 49ers selected in the third round with the No. 90 overall pick.
Black was a major contributor to Indiana’s championship-winning season, forming a dynamic backfield tandem with Roman Hemby. The duo was arguably one of the most productive running back combinations in college football, as both players surpassed 1,000 rushing yards. Black led the Hoosiers with 10 rushing touchdowns while averaging an impressive 5.6 yards per carry.
Now, the former Indiana standout is beginning his NFL journey in San Francisco, and he is already making the most of his opportunities during his first training camp.
Kaelon Black earns first-team opportunities with McCaffrey sidelined
Christian McCaffrey remains the unquestioned centerpiece of the 49ers’ backfield. A four-time Pro Bowler and the 2023 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, McCaffrey is widely regarded as one of the league’s most dangerous offensive weapons.
However, injuries have been a recurring issue for the veteran running back in recent seasons. McCaffrey is currently dealing with physical tightness and has missed several practices during training camp, creating additional opportunities for other backs on the roster.
That opportunity has landed in Black’s hands.
According to NBC Sports, Black received first-team repetitions in San Francisco’s backfield while McCaffrey was unavailable. Black also dealt with a thigh injury earlier in camp that kept him out for roughly two weeks, but he now appears healthy and is beginning to take on a more significant role.
Black must stay ready for a bigger opportunity
It may be premature to suggest Black could open the season as San Francisco’s starting running back. The 49ers have not announced a definitive timetable for McCaffrey’s return, although head coach Kyle Shanahan has indicated that the injury is not considered serious and that the team is simply taking a cautious approach.
The expectation remains that San Francisco is managing McCaffrey’s workload with the goal of having him ready for the season opener against the Los Angeles Rams on Sept. 10 in Australia.
Still, Black’s situation is worth watching.
With McCaffrey’s recent injury history and the physical demands of the position, the rookie could find himself playing an important role if he continues to impress. The 49ers have already dealt with multiple injury concerns across their roster, making depth in the backfield increasingly valuable.
For Black, the message is simple: keep producing and be prepared when the opportunity arrives. If he establishes himself as a dependable option in Shanahan’s offense, the former Hoosier could carve out a meaningful role earlier than expected — and potentially emerge as an intriguing fantasy football sleeper behind McCaffrey.
