Jaleel McLaughlin stands out as one of the NFL’s most inspiring young running backs. In this article, you’ll learn about McLaughlin’s net worth, career earnings, contract and salary details, major statistics, his rise from hardship to football stardom, and a glimpse into his personal life and relationships based on the latest sources.
Jaleel McLaughlin’s Biography
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jaleel R. McLaughlin |
| Date of Birth | September 13, 2000 |
| Age | 24 |
| Education | Notre Dame College, Youngstown State |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5’7″ (170 cm) |
| Weight | 187 lbs (85 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2023 |
| Net Worth | $1.2 million |
| Salary/Career Earnings | $2,710,000 (2023–2025) |
| Team | Denver Broncos |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
| Twitter Profile | N/A |
Early Career
Jaleel McLaughlin grew up in Marshville, North Carolina, facing enormous challenges, including periods of homelessness and major family losses. Sports became his anchor, keeping him focused during these tough times.
At Forest Hills High School, he played football, ran track, and played basketball. Despite rushing for over 1,400 yards in his senior year and showing elite speed and toughness, bigger college programs overlooked him due to his size.
Notre Dame College in Ohio was the rare school that offered him a chance to play running back. He quickly broke school rushing records, leading all NCAA divisions in yards as a freshman.
Professional Career
After rewriting the record books at Notre Dame College and later at Youngstown State—becoming college football’s all-time leading rusher with 8,166 yards—McLaughlin went undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft.
The Denver Broncos signed him as a free agent. McLaughlin worked hard and quickly earned a spot on the roster, impressing coaches and fans with his agility and quickness.
He scored his first NFL touchdown in his rookie season and steadily climbed the depth chart, becoming a valuable contributor in the Broncos’ backfield. His consistently strong performances in 2023 and 2024 proved he belonged in the NFL.
Jaleel McLaughlin’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Jaleel McLaughlin’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.2 million. Most of his wealth comes from his NFL salary and signing bonuses.
Contract
McLaughlin signed a three-year contract with the Denver Broncos in May 2023 for $2,710,000. The rookie deal included a $15,000 signing bonus and $55,000 guaranteed. His contract runs through the 2025 season, positioning him for a possible new deal or extension if he continues to perform at a high level.
Salary
He will earn a base salary of $1,030,000 in 2025. His contract makes him one of the more affordable and impactful players on the Broncos’ roster, and his performance has turned him into a true asset for the team.
Career Earnings
| Year | Base Salary | Signing Bonus | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $750,000 | $15,000 | $765,000 |
| 2024 | $915,000 | – | $915,000 |
| 2025 | $1,030,000 | – | $1,030,000 |
| Total | $2,695,000 | $15,000 | $2,710,000 |
Career Stats
| Season | Team | Games | Starts | Carries | Rush Yards | Avg. | Rush TD | Receptions | Rec Yards | Rec TD | Fumbles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Denver Broncos | 17 | 3 | 76 | 455 | 6.0 | 4 | 23 | 109 | 1 | 1 |
| 2024 | Denver Broncos | 16 | 5 | 113 | 496 | 4.4 | 1 | 32 | 127 | 2 | 0 |
| Total | 33 | 8 | 189 | 906 | 4.8 | 5 | 55 | 236 | 3 | 1 |
FAQs
1. Which NFL team does Jaleel McLaughlin play for?
McLaughlin plays as a running back for the Denver Broncos. He joined Denver as an undrafted free agent and quickly became recognized for his speed and versatility in the backfield.
2. What college records did McLaughlin set before entering the NFL?
He finished his college career as the all-time leading rusher in NCAA history. Over his time at Notre Dame College and Youngstown State, he accumulated 8,166 rushing yards and 79 touchdowns, breaking a long-standing national record.
3. How has McLaughlin performed with the Denver Broncos?
Across his first two seasons, McLaughlin has rushed for 906 yards and scored six total touchdowns. He stands out with his high yards-per-carry average and his ability to contribute as both a rusher and a receiver.
4. What is unique about McLaughlin’s journey to the NFL?
Jaleel overcame significant obstacles, including poverty and homelessness during his childhood. Despite his standout high school career, Division I schools overlooked him because of his size, but his performance in college running back roles led to NFL opportunities.
5. What skills make McLaughlin effective on the field?
He relies on quick acceleration, vision, and agility. Coaches use him in both running and receiving situations because he excels at creating explosive plays and picking up essential yardage in high-pressure situations.
