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 a Week 4 MNF clash at Empower Field with Joe Burrow sidelined and Jake Browning under center for the Bengals. Browning’s ability to push the ball downfield will be tested by a Broncos defense that has allowed little through three games, while Bo Nix must sharpen an offense averaging under 23 points per game to avoid slipping further in the AFC West. DraftKings odds show Denver as the favorite, but the Bengals’ late-game resilience and defensive stands keep this one in play.

Focus for fantasy and bets: Browning’s volume and efficiency will drive Cincinnati’s sleepers; Denver’s defensive tempo could create multiple short-field opportunities for the Bengals if Browning connects with their weapons. The pricing and prop markets hinge on whether Mims, Fant’s status, and Steward’s absence push targets to other Bengals or Broncos playmakers. The MNF doubleheader sprinkles extra urgency into a night where every drive matters.

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.

Marvin Mims Jr. sat out practice with a hip issue, casting doubt over his Week 4 MNF matchup with Cincinnati as Denver navigates WR depth. He’s posted 6 catches, 40 yards, and a TD this season and contributes in return duties, making his health a key fantasy variable.

Evan Engram returned to full participation and could be a central piece in Denver’s third-down and red-zone concepts, per Payton, as the Broncos try to halt a two-game skid. Cincinnati ruled out Noah Fant and Shemar Stewart, while Denver’s offense may lean on Engram to spark production if Mims is limited or out.