As the [Denver Broncos](https://www.milehighreport.com) headed into the 2025 [NFL Draft](https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft) there was a notion that Running Back was a position of need. They addressed that notion with the selection of RJ Harvey in the second round. If you look at the unofficial depth chart, he sits at the top of that list, which has pushed everyone down a spot. Jaleel McLaughlin, who averaged 4.4 yards per carry in 2024, will definitely be in the mix for playing time.
The big question for him is how will Sean Payton choose to utilize his skill set. With 113 carries for 496 yards, he was a big part of the RB rotation. With the departure of Javonte Williams, that role might have increased. However, the drafting of RJ Harvey seems to have slotted McLaughlin back into that 3rd string, change of pace back.
### **Player Profile**
#### Jaleel McLaughlin | Running Back | Broncos
* **Height:** 5-7
* **Weight:** 187 pounds
* **Age:** 24 years old
* **Experience:** 3rd year
### 2025 Outlook
It’s an interesting spot for McLaughlin. As a 3rd year player, he has experience with Sean Payton’s offense. He was effective in certain situations. He can catch the ball out of the backfield. He can run between the tackles. He can be a playmaker out in space.
With Audric Estime slated to be the bruiser, and Harvey as the every down back, the battle for that 3rd spot will come down to McLaughlin and Tyler Badie. It is likely that this spot on the roster won’t ever be fully decided, and the offense will simply focus on whichever player has the hot hand.
The other possibility could be a spot on the chopping block. Someone might be expendable if Harvey comes in and has an immediate impact on the field. It would not be surprising to see the Broncos make some kind of roster move. Perhaps a trade for draft picks could be in McLaughlin’s future.
### Final Thoughts
The running back situation in Denver is one that seems to be in flux. With Badie in the mix, and Estime and Harvey looking like the 1-2 punch that Payton would like to use in this offense, the issue may just be, who is the odd man out. McLaughlin has been good in his time in Denver. He is not overly explosive, but his size and ability make him a tricky player to tackle.
He probably makes the roster, and he probably gets opportunities as the change of pace back. Badie’s injury history will probably keep him behind McLaughlin for opportunities, so it wouldn’t surprise anyone to see him stay as the number 3 RB for the Broncos. As a former undrafted rookie, he knows how to fight for a spot, which gives him the experience necessary to do what is needed to stick around.