The Denver Broncos may have found an undrafted gem when they signed Jaleel McLaughlin this spring.
McLaughlin (5-7, 187 pounds) is college football’s all-time leading rusher, but size (his own size and the size of his two colleges) played a part in the running back going undrafted in April.
The Broncos then landed him as a college free agent and McLaughlin quickly impressed coaches and teammates this summer.
“He’s done a ton of good things … he was outstanding,” coach Sean Payton said after Sunday’s win over the Chicago Bears. “He’s hard to tackle. Good in space. Hit the screen for a touchdown. Made some big runs. We’ll keep expanding his role.”
Even before Javonte Williams left last week’s game with a hip injury, McLaughlin was leading the backfield in snaps. McLaughlin went on to rush seven times for 72 yards. He also hauled in three receptions for 32 yards and a touchdown.
Payton said Denver will continue expanding McLaughlin’s role, so even if Williams does not miss any time due to injury, expect the rookie running back to continue making an impact with the Broncos.
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