Undrafted rookie Kaelon Black’s preseason breakout sparks debate over Christian McCaffrey’s workload, suggesting the Niners have finally found the depth needed to preserve their superstar’s longevity.
The San Francisco 49ers are set at running back for the 2026 NFL season. That is, if one NFL analyst is to be believed.
Niners reporter Henry Chealcontends that the Niners "no longer need to worry about" their running back room due to a key breakout running back. Here's what Cheal contends on the emergence for former Indiana Hoosiers running back and first-year player Kaelon Black's preseason.
"One of the big narratives this offseason has been San Francisco saying it will monitor and even reduce McCaffrey’s workload. No games have been played yet, so there’s still time for the approach to change, but the benefits of doing so are simply too good to ignore.
He was run down to the ground last season. He had way too much involvement, his explosiveness declined, and he took on multiple roles on an injury-riddled roster where virtually every starter missed time in one way or another.
Preseason proved encouraging for (Kaelon) Black as he got to grips with the new system, with the matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers particularly standing out as he rushed for 33 yards on eight carries. He also embedded himself well within the team, with offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak praising his development. ...
The sample sizes are small, but they are encouraging and show that the 49ers have two competent backups at running back. It’s unclear who will be the direct backup to McCaffrey right now, but having either player step in when needed would show the 49ers have options, and that could be key over the course of the season."
Aug 27, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive back Isaiah Pola-Mao (20) tackles San Francisco 49ers running back Kaelon Black (26) during the first half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Trim-Imagn ImagesA couple of major questions come from the above assertion. The first is, how ready is Black to fill into a major role in the 49ers' offense? The second question is, just how big will his role become?
Nobody wants to place expectations on a rookie player. Certainly, you don't want to heap expectations on a backup for one of the NFL's best at his position. Contrary to what some suggest, McCaffrey, who led all pro running backs in receiving yards, can still perform at a high level.
Nevertheless, the 49ers' plans stand. They want to take away carries from McCaffrey to preserve his career longevity. To do that, Black may be called upon to take several carries of his own.
Depending on who you ask, the Niners may be done adding to their running back room for the 2026 season. We'll keep an eye on what moves they may make as the NFL season nears.
