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Christian McCaffrey praises 49ers rookie Kaelon Black amid training camp

3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 11:30 PM

Last updated Jul 30, 2026

Christian McCaffrey praises 49ers rookie Kaelon Black amid training camp

Summary

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey has expressed strong support for rookie Kaelon Black during a media session in Santa Clara. McCaffrey noted Black's impressive performance and maturity as he takes on a larger role with the absence of Jordan James due to a rib injury. The rookie, drafted in the third round, has been working with the second team and aims to change perceptions about the 49ers' recent running back selections. Other veterans, including George Kittle and Kyle Juszczyk, have also endorsed Black's capabilities. With training camp ongoing, Black will seek to build on this momentum as the team prepares for preseason games.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•McCaffrey calls Black 'exactly what you would want' in a rookie.
•Black has taken over second-team reps after injuries to teammates.
•He had a notable college career with 2,261 rushing yards.
•Veterans Kittle and Juszczyk have also praised Black.
•The 49ers are preparing for preseason as training camp continues.

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What they're saying

"
Kaelon Black has yet to play in an NFL game, and he’s already leaving a strong impression on 49ers veterans at training camp. Running back Christian McCaffrey was quick to...
— Yahoo Sports