Kaelon Black is back in uniform for the San Francisco 49ers, hitting the field for the first time since an adductor injury sidelined him during the very first week of camp. This isn’t just a player returning to practice, this is the 49ers making a clear statement about what they expect from their rookie running back and how crucial he could be right out of the gate.
The Rookie RB Is Ready, And It’s About Time
The team isn’t playing games with Black’s health. You know they wouldn’t bring him back to practice unless he was 100 percent healthy, a strong vote of confidence in his recovery and his potential. This is big, especially with Christian McCaffrey battling some muscle tightness that, let’s be real, could absolutely linger into September. The 49ers need to know, without a doubt, what they have in Black. They’ll be watching him closely over these next couple of weeks. It’s all about figuring out just how often they can use him early in the season, giving them flexibility and a vital backup plan if McCaffrey needs a lighter load. His return also clears up why the team decided to let go of Khalil Herbert on Monday. They’re making strategic moves, betting big on Black to step up and prove he belongs in that rotation. Oh, and don’t hold your breath for any news on quarterback Kurtis Rourke yet, he’s still on the mend from a rib injury.
Defensive Line Worries Are Brewing
While the running back situation gets a bit clearer, things on the defensive line are starting to look a little dicey. The 49ers just announced they’ve signed defensive tackle Evan Anderson. To clear a roster spot, they had to waive and injure Titus Leo, who, get this, only signed with the team on August 2. Leo did manage to get 31 snaps as an edge rusher in the first preseason game, but his time was short. Anderson, meanwhile, is a known quantity for the Niners, having played over 250 snaps for them as an undrafted rookie back in 2024. He should slide right in and serve as a crucial “preseason body.” The real worry here, though, is rookie defensive tackle Gracen Halton. He missed Sunday’s practice because of an ankle injury, and bringing in Anderson definitely feels like a red flag. It could very well mean Halton’s injury is more serious than just a day-to-day issue. That’s a significant concern for the depth and power of their defensive front, no question about it.
The 49ers have a joint practice scheduled for Tuesday morning in El Segundo, California, facing off against the Los Angeles Chargers. Everyone will be keeping a close eye on Kaelon Black to see how he performs back on the field. Will Halton miraculously suit up? It’s highly unlikely, but we’ll be looking for any signs of his recovery. This practice is going to be absolutely vital for evaluating where these players stand as the season draws nearer.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Niners Nation.
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