49ers Rookie Kaelon Black Eases Christian McCaffrey's Workload in NFL Debut
San Francisco 49ers rookie running back Kaelon Black out-carried All-Pro Christian McCaffrey in Week 1, part of a planned effort to lighten the veteran's load. Coach Kyle Shanahan praised Black's preparation after the 27-7 win over the Rams.
San Francisco's plan to reduce Christian McCaffrey's workload came together in Week 1 when rookie Kaelon Black carried 14 times for 65 yards, more touches than McCaffrey in the 49ers' 27-7 win over the Los Angeles Rams, according to the Associated Press.
"I was a little surprised at the end just that Kaelon got more than Christian," coach Kyle Shanahan said, adding that Black "was prepared for everything, the run game and the pass game."
McCaffrey, a three-time All-Pro, said he welcomes the shared workload. "When you can keep backs fresh, it's a good change of pace for defenses," he said.