Robert Saleh reveals 49ers missed out on a top RB target in 2025 NFL Draft

That pick was quite controversial at the time, as Black was expected to go much later on Day 3 and there hadn't been a running back picked since Jadarian Price went at No. 32 overall. But head coach Kyle Shanahan revealed Black was the team's No. 2 running back in the draft, and the rookie has gotten off to a fast start to the 2026 season.

It marked the fifth time in six years that the 49ers had drafted a running back. Only two of those five are on the active roster: Black and 2025 fifth-round pick Jordan James . James was the latest selection of the five picks, as the 49ers took him in the fifth round. He missed much of his rookie season with a finger injury, and has played in just four games so far in the NFL, carrying the ball four times for 15 yards.

James was considered a solid Day 3 prospect in last year's draft, but there was another running back the 49ers actually had their eyes on going into the draft: New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo .