Kaelon Black began his college career at James Madison as a lightly recruited two-star prospect and followed coach Cignetti to Indiana where he became a key piece of the Hoosiers' offense. Black provided the power run game that helped fuel Indiana's championship run, and played the best football of his career in the playoffs. Of the two Indiana backs in this class, Black is the more intriguing prospect. He brings enough athleticism and physicality to carve out a legitimate role in the NFL.
Black's model comparisons don't inspire a lot of confidence. Dexter Williams and Zamir White have the most similar profiles, and neither made a meaningful impact in the NFL. Black ranks among the least elusive backs in our model, and it's a significant drag on his overall profile. Unless he exceeds his projected draft position, it's difficult to make a strong case for him as a fantasy asset despite how impressive he looked at Indiana this past season.
Film Notes
Rushing
- Terrific power for his size
- Watching a JMU running back recruit run over Alabama and Miami defenders was hilarious
- Quick, decisive cuts made him an effective between the tackles runner at Indiana
Receiving
- Limited involvement as a receiver, but was fine when called upon
Pass Blocking
- Plays with a nasty edge that shows up consistently
- Can be seen pile driving a Miami linebacker into the ground on Mendoza's famous touchdown run in the national championship
- Identifies and picks up his assignment quickly, showing good awareness in protection