The Bengals’ backfield duel to accompany Chase Brown in 2025 will shape both offense and fantasy value. Cincinnati re-signed Samaje Perine, a reliable pass-blocker with third-down chops, creating a veteran floor behind the second-year Brown. Opposing a rookie, Tahj Brooks, a downhill runner from Texas Tech, adds a contrasting style and goal-line potential. The clash matters if the Bengals lean on efficiency in a high-volume, pass-heavy attack led by a healthy Joe Burrow.

Perine’s impact hinges on usage: if he claims the third-down and two-minute duties, he’s a steady PPR option in deeper leagues and best-ball formats. Brooks’ ceiling rides on red-zone opportunities and clear early-down snaps; in a run-heavy script or an injury to Brown, his role could surge. In a pass-first offense with Chase and Higgins, the RB2 battle carries real fantasy stakes as camp and preseason reps unfold.

Fantasy players should weigh roster construction: Perine is the safer hedge with consistent floor, especially in 14+ team leagues; Brooks is a stash for those chasing upside in Dynasty or deep convos about late-season spikes. Cincinnati’s context — Burrow’s health, light boxes against the pass — suggests upside exists for the committee, particularly in games that stay competitive and through fantasy playoff weeks.

The 2025 NFL preseason kicks off with a multi-game DFS slate featuring the Colts vs Ravens, Bengals vs Eagles, and Raiders vs Seahawks. DraftKings and FanDuel offer lucrative contests such as the $150k Preseason Special and $25k Preseason Rush.

Strategic lineup construction is key, with fewer established starters likely to play, making it essential to target younger talent and those on the roster bubble. For quarterbacks, Anthony Richardson is one to watch as he battles for the starting job with Daniel Jones, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. In the backfield, rookies like Tahj Brooks are expected to see significant carry opportunities, while wide receivers like Tory Horton are setting themselves apart in training camp.

The Cincinnati Bengals are poised to enhance their already formidable offense with the addition of running back Tahj Brooks, selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite being drafted late, Brooks' college career at Texas Tech showcased his potential, as he amassed 4,560 rushing yards, ranking fourth in Big 12 history. With the Bengals releasing Zack Moss, Brooks is set to take on the RB2 role behind Joe Mixon, further bolstering a roster brimming with talent. His impressive performance in training camp has drawn admiration from coaches and analysts alike.

As the Bengals gear up for the upcoming season, Brooks' ability to complement the existing stars, such as Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, could make a significant impact. Fantasy football enthusiasts should take note of his rising stock as he may become a valuable asset in both standard and PPR formats, especially if he secures a substantive role in the offense.

The Cincinnati Bengals have made a strategic addition to their backfield by drafting Tahj Brooks, a talented running back from Texas Tech, in the sixth round. Last season, Brooks showcased his potential by racking up 1,704 scrimmage yards and scoring 18 touchdowns. He enters a competitive running back room that includes third-year standout Chase Brown, who had a breakout season in 2024, and seasoned veterans Zack Moss and Samaje Perine, who is now with the Bengals for a third time.

With this depth, Brooks faces the challenge of carving out a significant role in an already established lineup. The presence of experienced players like Perine and Moss means that Brooks will have to earn his place through impressive performances in training camp and preseason. The Bengals' commitment to building a strong backfield should encourage fantasy players to monitor Brooks’ development closely, as he could provide value if an opportunity arises due to injuries or performance issues among the starters.