Who Should I Start? J.K. Dobbins or Chase Brown

Wednesday, October 8, 11:15 AM

Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins has "been fantastic," according to Broncos head coach Sean Payton. The 26-year-old is in his first year with the team and has gotten off to a fast start to the season, rushing for 402 yards and four touchdowns on 77 carries through five games. Dobbins does not offer much as a receiver (six total receptions), but he's been the clear lead rusher in a Broncos backfield that also features RJ Harvey and Tyler Badie. Health has always been a question mark for Dobbins, as he had played in just 22 games over his previous three seasons coming into 2025. However, if he stays healthy, it does not appear he's in any danger of losing his current role in Denver. Dobbins profiles as a must-start fantasy running back in Week 6 against the New York Jets.

Saturday, October 11, 11:34 AM

Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown hasn't played well this season. After scoring a touchdown in the Bengals' Week 1 win over the Cleveland Browns, the 25-year-old hasn't visited the end zone since then. He only had eight carries for 27 yards in Week 5 versus the Lions. Fortunately, Brown made up for it by catching seven of his eight targets for 21 yards. Cincinnati won the first two games of the 2025 campaign. Unfortunately, the Bengals have lost their last three contests, so the team is desperately looking for a win in Week 6 against Green Bay. Joe Flacco, who was recently acquired in a trade with the Browns, will get the start under center for that one. However, Flacco's knowledge of the playbook will presumably be limited, meaning Brown may see more touches than normal while potentially getting an uptick in short passes out of the backfield. With that said, the Packers defense has been a challenge for opposing offenses throughout the year, which isn't good news for Brown, Flacco, Ja'Marr Chase (illness), and Tee Higgins. Still, the 2023 No. 163 overall pick remains worthy of a start in all fantasy formats based on his upside alone, especially for managers with limited options at the running back position.