Kaelon Black

Black is a runway back that wins with speed, acceleration, and vision. He isn't a powerful back capable of pushing the pile or stiff-arming defenders into the dirt. Black has the raw speed to hit a crease and take it the distance. He can get into trouble quickly in the backfield if contacted early in a play. Black isn't a contact balance champ. He can be brought down with sufficient tackling technique. He's a linear runner without a ton of wiggle. Black can make defenders pay in the second-level, though, with a full head of steam as he'll run through some weak wraps or poor angles. Black was used sparingly as a receiver at Indiana, with only 12 targets in two seasons (48 receiving yards). He was decent (at best) in pass pro. He had only 64 pass blocking snaps over the last two years, in which he allowed three pressures and a sack. Dynasty Outlook: We have been down this road with Kyle Shanahan too much to have a ton of faith. Shanahan's track record with backs selected in the draft in round 3 or later since 2017 is HORRIBLE. Since 2017, he has helped the 49ers select Joe Williams, Elijah Mitchell, Trey Sermon, Tyrion Davis-Price, Isaac Guerendo, and Jordan James. Black is a runway back with the ability to break off some long plays. He's a limited player, though, as a linear runner and unproven receiver. Black is a decent player to take a shot on in rookie drafts, but I WILL NOT overdraft him or steam him up because of the landing spot. This is a trap that we have fallen for way too many times as a dynasty community. It's time to learn from past mistakes. Last year, Black didn't even manage to make it into the top 40 FBS running backs in yards after contact per attempt or breakaway rate.

The San Francisco 49ers have selected RB Kaelon Black with the No. 90 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Fantasy Impact

Black becomes the latest running back addition in the draft by the 49ers. He showcased his upside in the run by Indiana to winning the national championship this past year. He is a shorter running back who is strong with good vision. He will compete for a depth role in the 49ers backfield.