Who Should I Start? Jaylen Warren or Chase Brown

Friday, October 10, 11:12 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren (knee) is set to return to action in Week 6 against the division-rival Cleveland Browns. Though Kenneth Gainwell impressed in Warren's absence, the latter is expected to reclaim RB1 duties immediately after practicing in full all week. Fantasy managers should keep expectations in check, however, as the Browns are allowing the fewest yards per carry and third-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing running backs. If Pittsburgh is forced to lean on the passing attack, Warren should remain involved as a key target for quarterback Aaron Rodgers, especially with Calvin Austin III (shoulder) sidelined. While this isn't the most appealing matchup, Warren still checks in as the RB26 in RotoBaller's half-PPR rankings and profiles as a high-end flex play in most formats.

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.