Expect increased role for Broncos rookie RB Jaleel McLaughlin

Since Denver Broncos running back Javonte Williams suffered a hip flexor injury in a Week 4 victory against the Chicago Bears, expect promising rookie Jaleel McLaughlin to receive more touches.

"Let's talk about Jaleel," Broncos head coach Sean Payton said Monday, via Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio. "He was explosive in the run and pass game. He gave us some juice, so we'll continue to look at his role. Javonte, we won't mention or comment until the week progresses. [That's] typical for us relative to injuries."

Per sports injury expert Jesse Morse, a hip flexor injury isn't a significant concern, and it usually ties to an ACL tear, which Williams suffered in 2022. He also noted there's a "realistic chance" he plays Sunday against the Jets.

However, Williams missed 12 games last season, so the Broncos should exercise caution. Additionally, McLaughlin keeps proving he's a capable back. Through four games, the undrafted free agent out of Youngstown State leads the team in yards per carry (7.1). In the 31-28 win over Chicago, he rushed for 72 yards on seven carries and scored an 18-yard TD on a screen pass.