The team’s own website notes that Zack Moss’ status going forward is “unclear.” Speaking to reporters, Pitcher praised Chase’s ability in pass protection, saying “Chase really stepped up in his protection as well last year.” The Bengals coordinator added that “depending on who we are able to add we can mold it and we can make it work. Credit Chase’s development that we find ourselves in that position.” It was never likely that we were going to get Week 10-Week 18 Brown, who almost never left the field, back in 2025. A bigger backup runner could cost Brown some red zone carries, but at least it would maintain his status as a main target out of the backfield for Cincinnati next season.

Brown came into the contest listed as questionable after injuring his ankle in the second half of the team’s Week 17 win. It was initially deemed a mild high-ankle injury, with him ultimately unable to overcome the pain enough to be active in a must-win game. Expect Kahlil Herbert to lead the backfield, with an offensive game plan likely biased towards the air. Also inactive for the Bengals are DE Sam Hubbard, WR Charlie Jones, WR Jermaine Burton, TE Tanner McLachlan, OL Andrew Stueber, and DE Isaiah Thomas.

Rapoport had previously reported that Brown “must improve greatly” to play this week. However, the 24-year-old running back participated in walkthrough Friday, which could be a good sign for his availability against the Steelers. Brown is still listed as questionable and will be a game-time decision. Even if he’s active, there’s the potential Brown won’t be able to make it through the game without re-injury, but he’s certainly going to try. Khalil Herbert would be the main beneficiary from Brown either being inactive or limited in Week 18.

Brown is still technically labeled as questionable to play but Rapoport’s Friday night report is disheartening. Fantasy managers should expect Khalil Herbert to get the Week 18 start against the Steelers. Brown would be an RB1, if active, though at risk for re-injury.