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Broncos Wire’s 91-man offseason roster series continues today with a look at fourth-year running back Jaleel McLaughlin, No. 38.
Before the Broncos: McLaughlin (5-7, 187 pounds) began his college career at Ohio’s Notre Dame College (DII) and he dominated at that level, rushing for more than 2,400 in each of his two seasons. McLaughlin then transferred to Youngstown State (FCS) and rushed for 3,418 yards over three years with the Penguins. McLaughlin finishing his collegiate career with 8,155 rushing yards, an NCAA record. That impressive production combined with his 4.42 speed caught the attention of NFL teams seeking undrafted gems in 2023. The Denver Broncos came calling, and signed McLaughlin as an undrafted free agent prior to the 2023 season.
Broncos tenure: McLaughlin’s career began strong, when he played in all 17 games (three starts), with 76 rushes for 410 yards and one touchdown, adding 31 receptions for 160 yards and two touchdowns as a rookie. McLaughlin’s production increased in 2024, toting the rock 113 times for 496 yards and two touchdowns, hauling in 24 catches for 76 yards and two scores.
Despite his success in 2024, McLaughlin’s production declined significantly in 2025, and he started the season as a healthy scratch. After a season-ending injury to starting back J.K. Dobbins, McLaughlin was re-inserted back into the rotation, playing in eight games (one start), finishing the year with 37 rushes for 187 yards and one touchdown whiolle adding four receptions for 27 yards.
Chances to make the 53-man roster: Toss-up. It’s hard to see McLaughlin improving his status, especially after the Broncos drafted running back Jonah Coleman with the 108th overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft. McLaughlin could possibly beat out Tyler Badie and Cody Schrager for the RB4 job. Otherwise, he might be a practice squad candidate in 2026.
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This article originally appeared on Broncos Wire: Denver Broncos: Jaleel McLaughlin might be on the bubble in 2026
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