Chase Brown is the unquestioned Bengals running-back target. Chase Brown's receiving ability keeps him involved when Cincinnati trails, his pass protection helps him stay on the field, and the attention paid to Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins can create lighter defensive boxes.

Cincinnati remains a quarterback-driven passing offense. Cincinnati’s line has continuity and individual developmental positives. Chase Brown is Cincinnati’s clear feature back and one of the few running backs whose role can survive almost any game script.

Chase Brown's 2025 production was limited by the same quarterback injury context that lowered the entire offense. Chase Brown must now be drafted as an RB1, so managers are paying for the healthy-offense ceiling rather than receiving a late-round breakout discount. Chase Brown's receiving work protects his weekly floor, while the surrounding offense provides touchdown access. Chase Brown's approved target window is Rounds 1-2.