The San Francisco 49ers listed rookie running back Kaelon Black (groin) on their Week 2 injury report ahead of Sunday's home opener against the Miami Dolphins.
Black, who showed he can serve as a solid one-two punch alongside fellow running back Christian McCaffrey in the Week 1 opener against the Los Angeles Rams in Australia, was seen at practice on Friday but nevertheless was listed as questionable for the showdown.
According to the Niners' inactive list for Week 2, Black will indeed play despite the minor injury.
On the surface, that doesn't appear to be great news for second-year running back Jordan James, though. But, considering Black's injury and the fact James is active against the Dolphins, it's possible the latter gets his first on-field action in Week 2.
James, who saw scant action his rookie year, was inactive in Week 1 with Black splitting carries with McCaffrey. And while offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak had positive things to say about both young running backs, it's clear the rookie holds the role of backing up CMC.
But that might change in Week 2 against a lowly Miami squad.
Kaelon Black, Jordan James both active for 49ers vs. Dolphins
Black and kicker Eddy Pineiro (illness) were the only two players listed as questionable for Week 2. But with San Francisco opting not to sign a kicker ahead of Sunday's bout, all signs pointed to Pineiro making kicks against the Dolphins.
Here are the 49ers' inactives for Week 2:
- QB Kurtis Rourke (third QB)
- WR Jordan Watkins
- CB Ephesians Prysock
- LB Tatum Bethune
- OL Enrique Cruz Jr.
Related story: Brock Purdy will love the history that comes with Week 2 matchup vs. Dolphins
It'll be interesting to see how the Niners manage Black in light of his injury. There's a motivation to keep McCaffrey fresh, but after Black managed 4.6 yards on 14 rush attempts, one might think it'd be wise to let him keep up the momentum.
Particularly with Miami not boasting the best of defenses. That said, James could wind up getting a hefty share of carries if San Francisco doesn't want to push Black.
And that could give James his own chance to shine.
San Francisco kicks off against the Dolphins at 4:25 p.m. ET from Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Add us as a preferred source on Google