The San Francisco 49ers faced criticism after selecting running back Kaelon Black in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, with many analysts believing the team reached for the former Indiana standout. However, those concerns will quickly fade if Black develops into a productive change-of-pace option behind All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey.

Black was one of two 49ers rookies invited to the NFLPA Rookie Premiere event, which concluded Sunday. Joining him was the team's top selection, wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling, another draft pick who drew criticism for being selected earlier than many projections anticipated.


Stribling enters a revamped 49ers wide receiver room that underwent significant offseason changes. San Francisco moved on from several veterans while adding experienced playmakers Mike Evans and Christian Kirk to bolster the offense.

The NFLPA shared videos of both rookies wearing their full 49ers uniforms for the first time—taken at the NFLPA Rookie Premiere.


As for the criticism surrounding his selection, Black said he is using it as motivation heading into his rookie season.

"It makes me want to go harder," Black said. "I gotta prove my coach right. I'd be lying if I said I haven't seen the backlash that he's 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."


The 49ers begin organized team activities next week, with sessions running through early June. The team will then hold a two-day mandatory minicamp beginning June 9.

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