Get to know San Francisco 49ers running back Kaelon Black, his college career, hobbies, and more.
The San Francisco 49ers selected running back Kaelon Black out of Indiana University’s football program with the 90th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Fresh off a national championship, Black brings a physical, versatile style of play and a personality that impressed everyone in San Francisco throughout the draft process.
“You can’t help but love the kid and everything he stands for,” said John Lynch, President of Football Operations and General Manager. “We had him as the second-highest rated running back on our board,” Head Coach Kyle Shanahan said on “The Rich Eisen Show.”
Here are five things you should know about Black:
1. Fresh Off a National Championship Season
{IMAGE_1}
Black was a key contributor in Indiana’s run to the national championship, finishing his final season with 1,039 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. In the rivalry game against Purdue, he ran for two touchdowns in a 56-3 victory that secured the program’s first perfect regular season. He carried that momentum into the postseason, leading the team in rushing yards during the playoff series against Ohio State, Alabama, Oregon, and Miami, accumulating 241 yards and three touchdowns in the playoffs. In Indiana’s 27-21 championship win over the Miami Hurricanes, Black rushed for 79 yards and had a key 20-yard carry on a third-and-7 to keep the drive alive that ended in a touchdown.
2. Six College Seasons Across Two Programs
{IMAGE_2}
Black played six college seasons between Indiana (2024-2025) and James Madison (2020-2023), serving as a key piece in a versatile offensive role. He earned the Paul Hornung Honor Roll recognition during his time at James Madison. Over his career, he appeared in 56 games, recording 496 carries for 2,595 yards and 17 touchdowns. He also added 55 receptions for over 500 yards and six receiving touchdowns. His early-career production as a receiver makes his potential even greater, adding another dimension beyond his ground impact.
3. A Running Back in the Mold of Bobby Turner
{IMAGE_3}
Black’s physical running style made a strong impression on San Francisco’s staff during the team’s pre-draft evaluation process. On the second day of the 2026 NFL Draft, Lynch reflected on the relationship that running backs coach Bobby Turner built with Black before the former Hoosier received the life-changing call. “Kyle (Shanahan) asked Kaelon about Bobby T and their interaction. He said, ‘I love Bobby T,’ and we all love him. Kaelon is just his type. He’s a hard worker, runs hard, and is a great kid. That’s one of my favorite interviews.” Turner has always valued toughness, discipline, and coachability in his running back room. Beyond physical skills, he is known for challenging players mentally, including weekly written tests designed to keep the group focused. “Number one is tenacity,” Turner has previously said. “I want a young man who is capable of learning. Someone who is willing to learn and grow.” Black’s physical style and work ethic seem to align perfectly with the traits Turner has used to build his running back groups over the years.
4. An Early Passion for Football
{IMAGE_4}
Black’s love for the game started at a young age. “Kaelon used to sit and watch football for hours and hours,” his mother, Stacy, told NBC.
