Bengals sit 2-2 as Burrow’s turf-toe injury and Browning’s uneven play derail the start. A run-first approach may dominate until Burrow returns, shaping weekly fantasy expectations.

Defensively, Hendrickson is the lone reliable edge, while Jenkins, McKinnley Jackson, Ossai and Stewart haven’t produced consistent pressure. Free-agent additions Slaton, Hill and Pennel are average at best. With Taylor under pressure, Cincinnati needs immediate DL production to steady the ship.

Denver hosts Cincinnati in Week 4’s MNF, with Browning’s two 2025 appearances underscoring a fragile QB plan for Cincinnati. A rough Week 3 exposed riskier, off-script plays that backfired, pressing the Bengals to lean on safer looks and their patchwork line. Cincinnati’s upgrades—Fant’s hybrid TE role and Risner’s adaptation—give them sporadic pop, while Stewart and Battle offer defensive upside. Denver’s matchup leans on containment of Browning and exploiting Cincinnati’s o-line, leading to a Broncos edge around 24-14.

The Bengals’ recent roster moves loom large: Fant’s versatility could stress Denver’s coverage, Battle keeps climbing as a playmaker, and Hendrickson must deliver a disruptive shift to turn the tide. Fantasy managers should watch Bet on the Bengals’ players who can capitalize when Browning minimizes mistakes, but Denver’s home-field advantage and improved run defense remain pivotal in this MNF clash.

After Cincinnati’s blowout loss to Minnesota, the Bengals found a glimmer of light in Myles Murphy, whose burst and violence finally flashed the potential Cincinnati hoped for in year three. With Shemar Stewart sidelined, Murphy’s increased snap count could solidify a shaky defense, especially as Cincinnati eyes a Monday Night showdown with Denver. If Murphy sustains this pace, the Bengals’ pass rush could pivot from a concern to a real strength down the stretch.