Chase Brown

Chase Brown enters the 2026 fantasy season looking like one of the safer second-round running back picks, with Cincinnati still listing him as the clear top option at HB on the team’s depth chart. Recent preseason outlooks have him projected as a strong RB1/RB2 border case in fantasy, with some markets valuing him around RB8-RB12 and ADP in the middle of Round 2. The biggest reason for optimism is simple: the Bengals appear committed to making Brown the centerpiece of their ground game, and he already showed enough in 2025 to justify a major workload.

The role looks especially appealing because Cincinnati does not have an obvious backfield challenger who threatens to take the job away. Samaje Perine is the primary backup on the current depth chart, and several previews note that the Bengals still lack a standout handcuff, which supports Brown’s hold on volume. That matters a lot in fantasy, because Brown’s value is tied less to pure rushing efficiency and more to the combination of touches, catches, and scoring chances he should keep getting.

Brown’s upside comes from his all-around usage. Fantasy previews heading into 2026 point to a path toward 300-plus touches, strong receiving totals, and double-digit touchdowns if Cincinnati’s offense stays healthy and productive. The reports also suggest his ceiling rises if he can claim more of the red-zone work, which is the one area that could push him from a strong fantasy starter into true league-winner territory.

There is one note to watch closely: recent updates say the Bengals and Brown are reportedly discussing an extension, which is a good sign for long-term stability and should not hurt his 2026 value. He also dealt with an ankle issue late last season, but current reports place him on the active depth chart without any indication that a new injury, trade, or release will change his role. In short, Brown profiles as a confident target in the second round, with a sturdy floor and top-five running back upside if the touchdowns come through.