McLaughlin inactive Week 1, clearing room for Tyler Badie as RB3 behind Dobbins and Harvey. The 24-year-old produced 1,142 yards from scrimmage and six TDs in his first two Broncos seasons, making this a notable development for late-season backfield planning.

McLaughlin figures as a depth piece with potential to spell the lead back and contribute in the passing game. Week 1 usage will clue fantasy managers into his role for the season, especially in PPR formats where his targets could surface as a surprise.

McLaughlin enters a heated competition for Broncos depth behind Dobbins. His speed and receiving skills could push for a significant role if injuries or inefficiency slow the lead back. Expect preseason to reveal his path to third-down and return duties.

Jaleel McLaughlin is the speed back in Denver’s outside-zone profile, with a track record of explosive preseason runs. If he lands a third-down or change-of-pace role behind J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey, he could emerge as a sleeper RB3 with potential return duties.

McLaughlin is highlighted as a productive back in 2024 whose continued upside could position him as a fourth RB with high upside in the right system. His efficiency and special-teams impact could push him into meaningful late-season usage if the Broncos lean into a four-back approach.