The 25-year-old (turning 26 in March) had a standout 2025 season, posting a team-high 1,456 scrimmage yards (1,019 rushing, 437 receiving) while starting all 17 games. Brown has shown steady improvement in each NFL season, emerging as a key contributor in the Bengals’ offense.
Brown expressed a clear desire to stay with Cincinnati, telling ESPN that he would “love to do something and be a part of this team” and that he doesn’t want to “go anywhere else.” His representatives are reportedly working hard with the Bengals toward a new deal.
The Bengals have a history of delaying extension decisions, with veteran players like Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase taking a path that included franchise-tag years before long-term deals materialized. Brown is currently set to play the 2026 season on the final year of his rookie contract, with a base salary of $3.7 million, per Spotrac, giving the team time to evaluate market value and fit.
With the offense loaded and Cincinnati eyeing a return from a three-year playoff drought, Brown’s role and production make him an attractive extension candidate. The Bengals hold the No. 10 overall pick in this year’s draft, adding further upside to their offensive outlook and potential cap decisions surrounding Brown.
Ultimately, Brown’s commitment appears strong, and the ongoing talks indicate a possible extension in the near term. If a deal comes together, it would further cement his place in Cincinnati’s plans as they push to contend in 2026 and beyond.
