Bengals Host Final Top 30 Prospect in Unconventional, Lighthearted Way
While established NFL free agents might arrive in style, not every prospect gets the same treatment.
Last month, the Cincinnati Bengals sent a private jet to bring in safety Bryan Cook and defensive end Boye Mafe to finalize their free agent deals. But when it came time to host running back prospect Kaelon Black for a Top 30 visit, the team took a much more modest approach—sending him an Uber for a five-hour ride from Chicago, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
It may sound humorous, but there were unique circumstances behind the decision.
Black was traveling from Las Vegas after completing a Top 30 visit with the Raiders, but his connecting flight was canceled. Stranded overnight at O’Hare Airport and with the deadline for Top 30 visits approaching, the Bengals had limited options. With flights disrupted and time running out, they arranged for an Uber to ensure he made it to Cincinnati.
Black is ranked as the No. 10 running back in this year’s class by Dane Brugler of The Athletic. With starter Chase Brown entering the final year of his rookie deal and 2025 rookie Tahj Brooks still developing after limited carries last season, Cincinnati is expected to target a running back in the draft.
Brugler projects Black as a fifth- or sixth-round pick, which aligns with the Bengals’ typical draft strategy under head coach Zac Taylor. The team hasn’t selected a running back earlier than the fifth round during Taylor’s tenure.
Black began his college career in 2020 at James Madison under head coach Curt Cignetti and followed him to Indiana in 2024. There, he played a key role in helping the Hoosiers capture a national championship, rushing for 1,056 yards and 10 touchdowns during the season.
At 5-foot-9 and 211 pounds, Black is known for his low center of gravity, balance, and physical running style. He consistently finds openings at the line and attacks defenders with acceleration, often gaining more yards than expected. While his aggressive approach is effective, improving patience and decision-making could elevate his game further.
One area he’ll need to develop is his receiving ability. Over six college seasons, Black recorded just 55 receptions, including only four catches in each of his final two years at Indiana. Demonstrating pass-catching skills at the next level will be key to carving out a role in the NFL.
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