The Lead

Running back Jaleel McLaughlin has never shied away from adversity.

The North Carolina native faced challenge after challenge throughout his journey, but he never strayed from the belief that he would one day achieve his dream of playing in the NFL.

As the Broncos prepare to take the field to face McLaughlin's hometown team in Week 8, Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer took a closer look at McLaughlin’s journey to Denver — which began with a promise he made to himself during a Carolina Panthers "Fan Fest" practice several years ago.

"I said one day I'm going to be out there in the NFL, and I'm going to be playing on that field right there," McLaughlin said. "It's definitely great that we're going against Carolina this week — like I basically spoke that into existence."

McLaughlin, who faced poverty and homelessness during his high school days, often used sports as an escape. A three-sport athlete in high school, McLaughlin committed himself to hard work and self-improvement despite outside circumstances.

"I think adversity can make or break you, and I think that made me who I am, honestly," McLaughlin said. "With me and my family, us going through that in North Carolina, it just struck a nerve in me to want to work and not have to go through that (again). So I just put my head down and work as hard as I can."

Even with his strong work ethic, McLaughlin was not a highly sought-after recruit coming out of high school. With a goal to play at the next level, he landed at Notre Dame College in Ohio, where he excelled at the Division II level. Eventually transferring to Division I Youngstown State, McLaughlin rose to the challenge there as well; he posted 3,424 rushing yards and 30 rushing touchdowns over three seasons.

Still, his talents were once again not fully appreciated following college, and he signed with the Broncos as an undrafted free agent in May 2023.

"He was going to have to earn a roster spot the hard way, but he never blinked at the opportunity to prove his worth," Kaye wrote. "It's been a common challenge throughout his life and athletic career."

Now in his second season with the Broncos, McLaughlin has established himself as a consistent contributor for the Broncos' offense. He recorded three touchdowns during his rookie season and has added another two this season.

With his work ethic and commitment to self-improvement continuing to fuel his success, a journey that began several years ago in North Carolina will be front of mind as he takes the field against the Panthers this weekend.

For more on McLaughlin's journey, click here to read Kaye's article.