KaelonBlack

News: 6 days agoBlack rushed eight times for 33 yards and wasn't targeted in the 49ers' 41-17 preseason win over the Chargers on Thursday night.

Spin: The rookie third-round pick operated as the starting running back with Christian McCaffrey (undisclosed) inactive, and Black immediately recorded a five-yard gain on the 49ers' first play from scrimmage. The Indiana product also had eight- and nine-yard runs on San Francisco' second possession as he continued to make a strong case for the No. 2 job to open the regular season. Black saw backfield mate Sincere McCormick put together an impressive 6-53-1 line on the ground Thursday as well, but the former likely has the inside track to serve as McCaffrey's primary backup in a backfield where Jordan James (ribs) and Isaac Guerendo (PUP-pectoral) are also vying for roles.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Black was selected by the 49ers in the third round of April's draft. It was a bit of a surprise selection after Black failed to clear 190 touches in four collegiate seasons prior to not landing an invite to the scouting combine. He did clear 1,000 rushing yards at Indiana in 2025, but remained a nonfactor as a receiver, totaling exactly four receptions in each of his two seasons with the Hoosiers. Black will open his career in a battle with Jordan James for No. 2 duties behind Christian McCaffrey. He'll be worth an add if the 30-year-old McCaffrey misses time, but a lack of third-down ability may severely limit his fantasy output. Stash Black in dynasty formats.