In a surprising roster decision highlighting running back competition, the Denver Broncos have declared running back Jaleel McLaughlin inactive for their Week 1 game against the Tennessee Titans. The announcement, made on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at Empower Field at Mile High, marks a significant shift in the team’s running back dynamics and leaves many questioning the strategy heading into the season opener.
McLaughlin’s Inactivity: A Shocking Decision
The decision to bench McLaughlin is particularly noteworthy given his performance in the previous season. As the Broncos’ leading returning rusher in 2024, McLaughlin accumulated 496 yards and one touchdown on 113 carries. According to the Denver Broncos Official Site, he was expected to play a role in the team’s rushing attack this season. His absence from the active roster represents a significant departure from those expectations and marks the first time he has been inactive in his professional career.
New Faces in the Backfield
McLaughlin’s inactivity paves the way for other running backs to step into prominent roles. The Broncos are now poised to rely on a trio of J.K. Dobbins, RJ Harvey, and Tyler Badie in their backfield rotation against the Titans. This shift underscores the impact of offseason acquisitions and draft picks on the team’s roster composition. J.K. Dobbins, a free-agent signing, brings a proven track record to Denver, while RJ Harvey, a second-round draft pick, represents a significant investment in the team’s future. Tyler Badie, a former Baltimore Ravens sixth-round pick, rounds out the active running back corps.
Analyzing the Roster Shift
The decision to sideline McLaughlin suggests a strategic realignment within the Broncos’ offensive scheme. While McLaughlin was a key contributor in 2024, the coaching staff, led by Head Coach Sean Payton, appears to be prioritizing other skill sets and potential in the current roster. According to Heavy, this move could indicate a desire for a more physical or versatile running game, aligning with the perceived strengths of Dobbins, Harvey, and Badie.
Dobbins: The Free-Agent Acquisition
J.K. Dobbins’ arrival in Denver generated considerable excitement among fans and analysts alike. His history of explosive plays and ability to contribute in both the running and passing game make him a valuable asset to the Broncos’ offense. As reported by The Denver Post, Dobbins is expected to be a focal point of the team’s rushing attack, providing a combination of speed, power, and agility.
Harvey: The High-Draft-Pick Prospect
RJ Harvey’s selection in the second round of the NFL Draft underscores the Broncos’ belief in his long-term potential. Harvey possesses a unique blend of size, speed, and vision, making him an intriguing prospect for the team’s backfield. According to pre-draft scouting reports, Harvey’s ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact could make him a valuable asset in short-yardage situations and near the goal line.
Badie: The Veteran Presence
Tyler Badie’s inclusion on the active roster provides the Broncos with a veteran presence and a reliable option in the backfield. While Badie may not possess the same upside as Dobbins or Harvey, his experience and familiarity with NFL systems could prove valuable, particularly in pass-protection situations and as a receiver out of the backfield.
Impact on the Broncos’ Offense
The absence of Jaleel McLaughlin will undoubtedly have an impact on the Broncos’ offensive approach. While McLaughlin’s contributions in 2024 were significant, the team is confident that Dobbins, Harvey, and Badie can collectively fill the void and provide a more dynamic and versatile rushing attack. According to the Tennessee Titans Official Site, the Titans’ defense will need to prepare for a variety of running styles and play-calling strategies, making it more difficult to anticipate the Broncos’ offensive intentions.
Establishing the Run Game
The Broncos’ success against the Titans will hinge on their ability to establish a consistent and effective run game. By utilizing the diverse skill sets of Dobbins, Harvey, and Badie, the team hopes to keep the Titans’ defense off balance and create opportunities for the passing game to flourish. A strong running game will also help to control the clock and keep the Titans’ potent offense off the field.
Conclusion
The Broncos’ decision to bench Jaleel McLaughlin ahead of their Week 1 game against the Titans signals a strategic shift in their running back approach. While McLaughlin’s contributions in 2024 were valuable, the team is placing its faith in a new trio of Dobbins, Harvey, and Badie to lead the rushing attack. This move underscores the competitive nature of the NFL and the constant evolution of team strategies. Whether this strategic shift translates into success on the field remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly adds an intriguing layer to the Broncos’ season opener.
