Jaleel McLaughlin: The Rising Star of the Broncos’ Backfield?
In the ever-changing Denver Broncos’ running back lineup, Jaleel McLaughlin is making waves as a top contender. According to Cecil Lammey of DenverSports.com the Broncos top RB appears to be Jaleel McLaughlin and not Javonte Williams headed into 2024. While Javonte Williams has shown promise, McLaughlin’s impact on the field is catching attention early on. Williams, dealing with an injury recovery, struggled to regain his form, averaging just 3.6 yards per carry. Meanwhile, McLaughlin shone in his rookie season, racking up 410 rushing yards and a touchdown, alongside 160 receiving yards and two scores, despite starting as the team’s No. 3 RB.
What’s more, McLaughlin’s efficiency with limited touches sets him apart, even though he’s slated as RB3 for the upcoming season. Plus, with the potential addition of a quarterback like Bo Nix, known for his passing skills, McLaughlin’s dual-threat abilities could add a fresh dynamic to the Broncos’ offense. Heading into the 2024 season, McLaughlin’s trajectory looks promising, fueled by his tireless work ethic and undeniable on-field talent. Whether he takes the lead or supports the team, McLaughlin’s role will undoubtedly shape the Broncos’ offensive strategy, making him a player to keep a close eye on as the season unfolds.
Denver Broncos running back Jaleel McLaughlin has ...
Denver Broncos running back Jaleel McLaughlin (head) was ...
Denver Broncos rookie running back Jaleel McLaughlin is ...
Denver Broncos running back Jaleel McLaughlin is slated to back-up Javonte Williams and Samaje Perine in the season opener vs. Las Vegas.
It was a long, rarely traveled road to the NFL for undrafted Denver Broncos rookie running back Jaleel McLaughlin. At 5’7″ and 183 pounds, McLaughlin doesn’t fit the running back prototype. He began his college career at Division II Notre Dame College and finished at FCS Youngstown State, neither school known for producing NFL players. Going undrafted and signing with the Broncos as a rookie free-agent isn’t a path to success either. Now McLaughlin finds himself as the 3rd string backup to Javonte Williams and Samaje Perine, and he will be on the sidelines, ready to go, when the Broncos host the Las Vegas Raiders in their 2023 season opener.
McLaughlin impressed coaches and teammates enough in training camp to make the 53-man roster. “I’ll tell you what, man, he’s been the star of this camp,” said Broncos OT Mike McGlinchey. Head Coach Sean Payton was free with the accolades, as well. “He passed every test. From the minute he showed up in rookie minicamp, it wasn’t too big. Then he’s working out with the big boys on varsity and it wasn’t too big. Then we get the pads on and he makes plays every day.”
Barring catastrophe, McLaughlin likely won’t contribute in fantasy, but he sure is a fun story.