A key cog to the Notre Dame College football team for two of the team's five MEC Championships signed as an undrafted free agent with the Denver Broncos after the NFL draft over the weekend. Standing at just five feet nine inches and weighing 195 lbs, what Spring Hill, North Carolina native Jaleel McLaughlin lacks in size he makes up for in work ethic and determination. After his two years with NDC McLaughlin spent his remaining eligibility with Division I Youngstown State. He holds the NCAA record (all divisions) with 8,166 total yards and 79 touchdowns in his collegiate career. That equals out to a 145.8 yards per game. "Jaleel was my first roommate actually and he is an incredible football player, "former NDC defensive tackle Jack Kosko mentioned.
"I knew Jaleel was different from day one of camp, former NDC offensive lineman Adam Riegler explained.
"He came in working hard everyday. He would work our during the summer three or four times a day. Jaleel would even put in more work after our home games, " former NDC wide receiver Jeremy Hamilton said.
The run of five straight MEC Championships began for NDC in the 2018 season with current Lenoir Rhyne head coach Mike Jacobs at the helm in South Euclid. He talked about Jaleel:
"I couldn't be more excited for Jaleel and his signing with Denver Broncos. There is not a single player more deserving. His relentless work ethic and determination are unmatched."
"I'm absolutely ecstatic that Jaleel got the opportunity to go show the world what he does best. "Jaleel was a role model for the team. His dedication to the team was inspiring to all of his teammates. Jaleel has always had that chip on his shoulder and that's what sets him apart from the rest. It was an absolute honor to play beside him for those two years and he will always be my brother! Can't wait to see him shock the world and defy the odds again, " Riegler said."
"Jaleel is one of the most electrifying athletes to ever wear an NDC football uniform, "NDC play by play commentator Eric Little mentioned. "The numbers and the highlights don't fully show his remarkable athleticism and skill. I'm excited to see him get an opportunity to make an NFL roster and I think Broncos fans are about to find out they've got a really special player."
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