Fantasy Football

Jaleel McLaughlin

RB - DEN

Height: 5-7

Weight: 187 lbs

Age: --

College: Youngstown State

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2024 Season Outlooks

McLaughlin ranked as one of the NFL's most explosive running backs in 2023, so there's some potential for him to be helpful in Fantasy if he can earn more playing time in Denver this preseason. He finished inside the top 20 among qualifying RBs in yards per carry (5.4), avoided tackle rate (26.3%) and explosive play rate (10.5%). That sounds amazing but it comes with some sad context: McLaughlin had just 76 rushes in 17 games and never had more than nine runs in any game. If there's a positive, it's that McLaughlin is surrounded by slower talent in Denver's backfield, giving him a trait that could earn him more playing time if he excels this preseason. It's that potential that makes him a good late-round flier

McLaughlin, the NCAA's all-time rushing leader, impressed the Broncos' brass as an undrafted rookie with a sizzling, four-touchdown preseason. That ultimately earned him a spot in the team's backfield rotation alongside Javonte Williams and Samaje Perine. McLaughlin certainly provided a spark, as 12 of his 76 rushing attempts went for 10-plus yards (sixth-best 15.8% rate, minimum 40 attempts), and he delivered a combined 37.3 fantasy points while filling in for an injured Williams in Weeks 4 and 5. McLaughlin should begin 2024 in a similar spot, making him a worthwhile late-round, speculative pick who could be a home-run hitter with an expanded opportunity.