Broncos General Manager George Paton flat out said it: cutting Jaleel McLaughlin was the “toughest” roster decision they faced at the deadline. And honestly, for a guy who became a legit fan favorite and a key offensive piece, you know it stung for everyone involved.
Jaleel’s Journey Hits A Wall
Dude, Jaleel was something else, right? This undrafted free agent came in as a rookie, had a standout preseason, and legit made the team. He was undersized, but man, he could run between the tackles and pop off some big plays. But last season, the tide started to turn. He was inactive for multiple games before JK Dobbins got hurt. Even when he got late-season action, he just couldn’t get anything going on the ground. Then this offseason, despite re-signing for a year, the rookie Jonah Coleman gets drafted, and McLaughlin’s spot was instantly on thin ice. He played behind Coleman all summer, and when he was still out there deep into the fourth quarter of the preseason finale? Yeah, the writing was on the wall.
Why Tyler Badie Got The Nod
So what was the deal? Why Tyler Badie over McLaughlin, especially after everything Jaleel brought to that locker room, the passion he had? Paton straight up said it: special teams and third-down ability. Look, McLaughlin is probably the better pure runner, no doubt. But for that RB4 spot? Badie’s got the edge because he offers way more as a pass blocker and on special teams. When you’re the fourth running back on the depth chart, those are the exact things you have to excel at. It’s why Badie was active over McLaughlin last season, and it’s why he’s got the spot now. Paton called it the “last decision we made” for a reason.
Heading into Week 1, the Broncos have made their move. Paton admitted it was tough, but the message for that RB4 spot is crystal clear: versatility isn’t just a bonus, it’s everything.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Mile High Report.
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