Broncos fan favorite is doing everything he can to make sure he sticks around for the long haul

The Denver Broncos had a player last season who stepped up and became a fan favorite in training camp. That happens often, really. We all remember Mario Fannin from 2011 as a guy who was extremely fast and looked great in training camp. But it just didn't work out. There are always these fan favorites […]

Justin Churchill College Football & NFL Trending News Writer
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Jaleel McLaughlin Zach Wilson Denver Broncos
Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

The Denver Broncos had a player last season who stepped up and became a fan favorite in training camp. That happens often, really. We all remember Mario Fannin from 2011 as a guy who was extremely fast and looked great in training camp. But it just didn't work out. There are always these fan favorites in the league, and a lot of them come out of training camp because they are underdogs that the fans want to see do well.

Some do well, some don't. But the Denver Broncos have a player from last season who is rewriting that narrative, who is defying the odds and proving that hard work and dedication can lead to success. Jaleel McLaughlin, an undrafted free agent, is a shining example of perseverance and determination.

Jaleel McLaughlin, an undrafted free-agent running back from last season, didn't just become a fan favorite overnight. His journey, from college standout to the Denver Broncos, is a testament to his perseverance and dedication. He's not resting on his laurels, though. He's still striving to carry over his college success to his second season, outworking everyone in the process.

Sean Payton, speaking about Jaleel McLaughlin, couldn't help but be impressed.

"Look, you see him protecting the football," he said. "He's very disciplined as a change-of-pace route runner. I know he wants to continue working on his passing game role. He will wear me out, come up to me, ask for cut-ups, and look for certain routes. He's here at 5:15, even in the offseason. He's the first one here, running, in the weight room. By the time he is at breakfast and most people are arriving, he has put in a good hour and a half of work. He's wired. It's impressive."

This dedication and work ethic are what set McLaughlin apart and make him a player to watch.

Jaleel McLaughlin's college career is nothing short of impressive. As the NCAA's all-time leading rusher from any division, he played at Youngstown State and amassed a staggering 8,166 rushing yards and 79 rushing touchdowns. These numbers speak for themselves and demonstrate his potential to make a significant impact in the NFL.

We know Javonte Williams is the guy right now. But that doesn't mean McLaughlin can't be. He is outworking everyone, showing up extra early, and showing that he wants to be better. McLaughlin's potential is undeniable, and he may just be a fan favorite that we see stick around for some time.