The San Francisco 49ers made Indiana running back Kaelon Black the 90th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a selection that drew immediate criticism from draft analysts who called the third-round choice a reach.
Both General Manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan have publicly defended the pick, emphasizing their confidence in Black’s potential.
"That's just our evaluation of him. Right or wrong, that's our evaluation."
Black, however, is embracing the scrutiny and using it as motivation for his rookie season. In a recent interview with Chase Senior of Chat Sports, via David Bonilla of 49erswebzone.com, he stated:
"It makes me want to go harder. I've got to prove my coach right. I'd be lying if I said I haven't seen the backlash that [Shanahan] has been getting for the pick, but we just stay the course. We stay focused, and we're going to keep moving and try to prove him right."
Black’s college career at Indiana reflects his determination. In 2024, he rushed for 251 yards. The following season, he became one of the Hoosiers’ two 1,000-yard backs, finishing with 1,040 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. He also contributed in the passing game, recording 4 receptions for 36 yards.
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