Why Broncos second-year RB could be a fantasy sleeper

Denver's RB room is crowded, meaning McLaughlin must compete for carries in training camp. The Broncos still have Javonte Williams and Samaje Perine. They also drafted Notre Dame RB Audric Estime — who tied for third in the FBS in rushing TDs in 2023 (18 in 12 games) — with the 147th overall pick.

However, it appears McLaughlin's work ethic has made the coaching staff take notice, which could result in an increased workload for the RB this upcoming season.

"He's here at 5:15, even in the offseason, first one here running (and) in the weight room," Denver head coach Sean Payton said of McLaughlin, via The Athletic's Nick Kosmider. "By the time he's at breakfast and most people are arriving, he's put in a good hour-and-a-half's worth of work. It's just the way he's wired, and it's impressive."

One knock against McLaughlin is his size (5-foot-7, 187 pounds). Payton knows how to use smaller RBs, though. In 2011, Darren Sproles (5-foot-6, 190 pounds) set a career-high in yards from scrimmage (1,313 in 16 games) while the Super Bowl champion served as Saints HC.

ESPN ranks McLaughlin No. 49 among RBs in PPR (points per reception) leagues. Fantasy owners should consider using a late-round pick on him or adding him through the waiver wire. He could be a low-risk, high-reward prospect.