Who Should I Start? Jaleel McLaughlin or Devin Neal

Tuesday, December 9, 10:03 PM

Denver Broncos running back Jaleel McLaughlin was inactive for nine out of his team's first 10 games of the 2025 season. However, the 25-year-old has been pressed into a more prominent role in recent weeks after Denver lost veteran running back J.K. Dobbins to a season-ending foot injury in Week 10. Across the team's last three games, McLaughlin has recorded 75 scrimmage yards and a touchdown on 19 touches. Broncos rookie back RJ Harvey has taken over the RB1 in Denver, which limits McLaughlin's upside. However, McLaughlin could now be one injury away from stepping into a lead role in the Broncos' backfield. In leagues with 12 or more teams, fantasy managers should consider stashing McLaughlin in a bench spot for his handcuff upside. Over the next three weeks, Denver will take on the Green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Kansas City Chiefs.

Thursday, December 11, 9:50 PM

New Orleans Saints running back Devin Neal (abdomen) remained a limited participant in practice for the second consecutive day on Thursday. The rookie has handled an increased workload lately with Alvin Kamara (knee, ankle) sidelined and Kendre Miller (knee) on injured reserve. He's averaging 71.3 scrimmage yards as the starter and scored his first career touchdown last week. Kamara is trending toward missing another game, leaving Neal in line to start against the Carolina Panthers, assuming he's healthy enough to play. At this rate, Neal has a decent chance to suit up in Week 15 as long as he logs a limited or full practice on Friday. If Neal is confirmed as active and Kamara is out, the rookie will rank as a mid-to-low RB2 in fantasy football.