Risk Flags
6- Depth Chart
Brooks is the clear RB3 behind Chase Brown (who dominated 88% of snaps from Week 9 onward in 2025) and veteran Samaje Perine. Chase Brown is reportedly in extension talks with Cincinnati, further solidifying his role as the workhorse back.
- Draft Capital
The Bengals hosted pre-draft visits with RB prospects Jeremiyah Love (consensus draft RB1), Kaelon Black, and Jayden Ott ahead of the 2026 draft, signaling clear intent to add a new RB. A mid-round selection could leapfrog Brooks entirely and claim the Perine vacancy.
- Roster Competition
Beyond Perine, the Bengals added UDFA RBs Jamal Haynes and Kentrell Bullock in 2026, adding further competition for the RB3 role and putting Brooks at real cut risk if he cannot distinguish himself in training camp.
- Development Path
Brooks is a sixth-round pick with high collegiate workload (879 career carries), which historically correlates with shorter NFL shelf life. He also suffered a concussion during his rookie 2025 season, adding durability concerns to an already crowded depth chart.
- Production Concerns
Brooks posted a discouraging 2.8 YPC on 16 carries in his rookie season — well below league average — with no touchdowns and minimal receiving involvement (3% target share). The efficiency profile does not suggest a player who will force his way onto the field.
- Age & Wear
Brooks entered the NFL with 576 carries over two college seasons — significant mileage for a 23-year-old. Combined with near-zero NFL development reps, his career trajectory window is tightening without meaningful usage to show for it.