Broncos Opt Not to Tender RB Jaleel McLaughlin

Team hopes to re-sign the undrafted free agent at a lower cost.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Denver Broncos have decided not to offer a $3.55 million contract tender to restricted free agent running back Jaleel McLaughlin, making him an unrestricted free agent. However, the team is still interested in bringing McLaughlin back at a lower price, as he has performed well in limited action over the past few seasons.

Why it matters

McLaughlin has proven to be a capable backup running back for the Broncos, and the team likely wants to retain him at a more affordable rate rather than pay the high restricted free agent tender. This move allows the Broncos flexibility to address the running back position in free agency or the draft while still keeping a familiar face in the backfield.

The details

The Broncos opted not to tender McLaughlin, an undrafted free agent out of Youngstown State in 2023, as the $3.55 million price tag was deemed too high. However, the team still hopes to work out a new deal to bring him back at a lower cost. McLaughlin has rushed for 1,093 yards and 3 touchdowns, while also catching 59 passes for 263 yards and 4 touchdowns in his career so far with the Broncos.

  • The Broncos made the decision not to tender McLaughlin on February 27, 2026.
  • McLaughlin will become an unrestricted free agent on March 15, 2026.

The players

Jaleel McLaughlin

A running back who has spent the past three seasons with the Denver Broncos after signing as an undrafted free agent out of Youngstown State in 2023.

Tyler Badie

An exclusive rights free agent running back who the Broncos plan to bring back for the 2026 season.

RJ Harvey

A running back who is expected to remain a key part of the Broncos' backfield in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Think about it, J.K. Dobbins made $2.75m this past season so RFA tenders too high for most.”

— Mike Klis, 9NEWS Broncos Insider (Twitter (@mikeklis9news)

What’s next

The Broncos will look to re-sign McLaughlin to a new contract at a lower price point before the start of free agency on March 15, 2026.

The takeaway

This move by the Broncos shows they value McLaughlin's contributions but are being prudent with their salary cap, opting to retain him at a more affordable rate rather than pay the high restricted free agent tender. It allows the team flexibility to address other needs at running back while keeping a familiar and capable backup in the fold.