Javonte Williams

Greg Dulcich made a standout debut at Broncos training camp, showcasing his speed, explosiveness, and robust health, aligning perfectly with the team’s vision of him as a dynamic receiving threat. Coach Sean Payton is optimistic about Dulcich’s return, citing impressive stats such as his 12.1 yards per catch average and top-10 ranking among tight ends in PPR points during his rookie 2022 season. Standing tall at 6’4″ and drafted from UCLA, Dulcich faces challenges in Denver’s offense amidst inconsistent quarterback play and competition from fellow receivers. Despite these uncertainties, Dulcich’s vertical skills position him as an intriguing sleeper for a breakout season.

Meanwhile, Javonte Williams put to rest early doubts by dominating first-team reps in all drills at camp. Despite recovering from a serious knee injury in 2022, Williams wrestled with efficiency issues like missed tackles and yards after contact, finishing as RB31 last season, prompting concerns about his physical readiness and competition from Jaleel McLaughlin. As Denver’s primary early-down back in an offense that faltered with Russell Wilson in 2023, fantasy managers should approach Williams cautiously, viewing him as a mid-range RB2 or RB3 for 2024. However, there is growing optimism about his potential to rebound strongly and secure his starting role amidst competition within the Broncos’ backfield.

Both Greg Dulcich and Javonte Williams showcased their talents during the closed-ramp-up practice. Dulcich, absent from practice since September due to prior injuries, impressed with improved physical conditioning and on-field performance, earning praise from Coach Payton. Similarly, Williams displayed renewed explosiveness after shedding weight as suggested by Payton, aiming to recapture his rookie form when he led the league in broken tackles. Despite facing challenges, both players are focused on solidifying their roles in Denver’s offense as they gear up for the 2024 season

Williams was seen as a top 20 running back in dynasty formats heading into this offseason. A combination of reflecting on his poor 2023 season, as well as the addition of 5th round running back Audric Estime has left dynasty managers pushing him outside the top 30 running backs. Williams tore his ACL, MCL, and PCL back in week 4 of 2022, and hasn’t looked the same since. While Broncos Head Coach Sean Payton acknowledged players don’t usually fully recover from these types of injuries until two years after, Payton’s constant positive sentiment regarding the other running backs in Denver is cause for concern.

Rookie Audric Estime has a chance to supplant Williams as the early down back in Denver. Jaleel McLaughlin looked tremendous last year as a rookie and should be in store for more usage on passing downs in 2024. When you add undrafted rookie Blake Watson into the equation, who Payton said the Broncos “saw a similar vision for how we used Kamara in New Orleans”, Williams should not be considered a lock to make the 53 man roster. Williams is a player to consider offloading from your fantasy roster before the downward trajectory continues.

In the ever-changing Denver Broncos’ running back lineup, Jaleel McLaughlin is making waves as a top contender. According to Cecil Lammey of DenverSports.com the Broncos top RB appears to be Jaleel McLaughlin and not Javonte Williams headed into 2024. While Javonte Williams has shown promise, McLaughlin’s impact on the field is catching attention early on. Williams, dealing with an injury recovery, struggled to regain his form, averaging just 3.6 yards per carry. Meanwhile, McLaughlin shone in his rookie season, racking up 410 rushing yards and a touchdown, alongside 160 receiving yards and two scores, despite starting as the team’s No. 3 RB.

What’s more, McLaughlin’s efficiency with limited touches sets him apart, even though he’s slated as RB3 for the upcoming season. Plus, with the potential addition of a quarterback like Bo Nix, known for his passing skills, McLaughlin’s dual-threat abilities could add a fresh dynamic to the Broncos’ offense. Heading into the 2024 season, McLaughlin’s trajectory looks promising, fueled by his tireless work ethic and undeniable on-field talent. Whether he takes the lead or supports the team, McLaughlin’s role will undoubtedly shape the Broncos’ offensive strategy, making him a player to keep a close eye on as the season unfolds.

It was a long, rarely traveled road to the NFL for undrafted Denver Broncos rookie running back Jaleel McLaughlin. At 5’7″ and 183 pounds, McLaughlin doesn’t fit the running back prototype. He began his college career at Division II Notre Dame College and finished at FCS Youngstown State, neither school known for producing NFL players. Going undrafted and signing with the Broncos as a rookie free-agent isn’t a path to success either. Now McLaughlin finds himself as the 3rd string backup to Javonte Williams and Samaje Perine, and he will be on the sidelines, ready to go, when the Broncos host the Las Vegas Raiders in their 2023 season opener.

McLaughlin impressed coaches and teammates enough in training camp to make the 53-man roster. “I’ll tell you what, man, he’s been the star of this camp,” said Broncos OT Mike McGlinchey. Head Coach Sean Payton was free with the accolades, as well. “He passed every test. From the minute he showed up in rookie minicamp, it wasn’t too big. Then he’s working out with the big boys on varsity and it wasn’t too big. Then we get the pads on and he makes plays every day.”

Barring catastrophe, McLaughlin likely won’t contribute in fantasy, but he sure is a fun story.