Kaelon Black
Getty
Kaelon Black
For the Miami Dolphins, one may not think that running back is an important position of need for the team. After all, for as long as De’Von Achane is still with the team, the Dolphins should believe that they have enough at the position to utilize it as a key aspect of their offense. Still, that has not stopped them from visiting with a national champion with the pedigree and skill set to succeed for the Fins right away.
Kaelon Black may have gone under the radar during his time with the Hoosiers last season, but that does not mean he wasn’t just as integral to their title win as several other key players. After missing out on an invite to the NFL combine, the Dolphins saw firsthand what traits that Black could potentially have that makes him stand out.
Dolphins eye hidden value as Black gains attention
For one, his explosiveness out of the backfield has led to a breakout season last year at Indiana. With 186 carries for 1,040 yards and 10 TDs, he established himself amongst 2026 RBs as a potential late round steal. Still, when it comes to national attention, he has not received much. Eight running backs ranked lower than him were invited to the combine, raising questions about why a title winning running back has not been given his due diligence.
Most importantly, he, as well as the rest of the Indiana running back room, got the ultimate seal of approval from their head coach Curt Cignetti. Cignetti has become one of college football’s most recognizable coaches after leading a resurgence in Indiana’s football program in his first two years. When speaking about the running backs at his disposal, he was effusive in his praise.
“I think that group definitely caught my eye,” Cignetti said. “I just think our running back room is faster, more dynamic, good at pass pro, good at catching the ball out of the backfield, can break tackles.”
Dolphins strategy mirrors Hafley and Sullivan rebuild vision
For a coach that is not known for praising his players, that is pretty high praise considering the fact that he did not receive much production from that group in his first year at the program. That speaks to the level of improvement that Black underwent.
As of right now, Black ranks as the No. 187 prospect according to Pro Football Focus. It certainly adds to the intrigue surrounding Black and for a team such as the Dolphins, that could be enough to pique their interest.
Achane could still end up sticking around with the team, but recent trade rumors have spread, putting potential doubt in the minds of Dolphins fans. While Kaelon Black may not be the most elite prospect the Dolphins could go after, he is still someone with the championship DNA instilled in him to succeed with the team.
This further reminds fans of the project that both Jeff Hafley and Jon-Eric Sullivan have undertaken. By looking at players that may be on the margins of this year’s draft, they may have identified a way to build a foundation for the long term future.