San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey has been impressed by rookie Kaelon Black's early performance in training camp, calling the newcomer "stacked" and highlighting his mature approach to the game.
Black, who joined the 49ers as a third-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after a national championship season with the Indiana Hoosiers, has yet to play in an NFL game but has already made a significant impression on the veteran players. McCaffrey stated that Black possesses the qualities desired in a rookie.
"You can tell he’s played a high level of football; he’s played mature football," McCaffrey said of Black. "He’s exactly what you would want a rookie to come in and be like."
Last season at Indiana, Black stepped into a lead back role for the first time, rushing for 1,040 yards and 10 touchdowns, averaging 5.6 yards per carry. He finished sixth in the Big Ten for rushing.
The 49ers anticipate a complementary backfield duo, with McCaffrey expected to continue as the lead back known for explosive plays, while Black is projected to be utilized in short-yardage situations due to his physical, downhill running style.
Comparing his own rookie year to Black's current readiness, McCaffrey noted the difference in their initial NFL introductions. "When you look at him in his rookie year, and you look at me, my rookie year, they look very different in age," McCaffrey commented.
Last season, McCaffrey earned Comeback Player of the Year honors after returning from an Achilles injury in 2024. He led the 49ers with 1,202 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, also contributing 102 receptions for 924 yards and seven receiving touchdowns.