Kyle Shanahan explains Kaelon Black traits that made 49ers want to draft him

SANTA CLARA — The football world was surprised when the 49ers selected a running back in the 2026 NFL Draft’s third round, but coach Kyle Shanahan explained the thought process behind the choice. “We’ve gone through a number of years here where we’ve been through at least four backs,” Shanahan said after the draft’s conclusion. “Last year was one of the abnormal years where, and it was awesome, but our starting back was able to stay healthy. Usually, it happens a lot, where it’s not just the one, it’s the two. With the No. 90 overall pick, the 49ers selected Indiana’s Kaelon Black, adding versatility to a deep room of ball carriers. The rookie will join Christian McCaffrey, Isaac Guerendo, Jordan James and Patrick Taylor Jr. “We’ve gone through four [running backs] a number of times,” Shanahan said. “So, what [Black] could do as a true starting running back is what I liked. If you ever had to give him more carries, could he hit the right hole? Can he move the chains when you only block it for three, can he get five?” In the 2025 NFL season,...