Chase Brown Showers Bengals' Defense with Praise During Training Camp Interview

The Bengals running back likes what he sees from the opposite side of the ball.

Jul 29, 2026; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown (30) runs with the ball during training camp at Kettering Health Practice Fields. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

There are plenty of storylines for Cincinnati Bengals fans to focus on as the team prepares for their first preseason game against the Detroit Lions on Thursday.

For example, there are many talents on the offensive side of the ball that have earned headline praise, which includes running back Chase Brown.

During a recent interview with the NFL Network, the Bengals' running back discussed his goals for the 2026 season as well as giving some high praise to the defensive side of the ball.

High Expectations

Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown runs a play during training camp, Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, at Paycor Stadium in Downtown Cincinnati. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

"They've been doing a really good job during this training camp," Brown said when asked about the team's defense. "I feel comfortable saying this, that's a top ten, top five defense."

That is some high praise for a unit that was one of the worst in the NFL just a season ago. Last year, the Bengals allowed the second most yards per game at 380.9. When it came to yards allowed on the ground, the Bengals allowed the most per game with 147.1.

Revamping this defense was a must, and the front office delivered. The Bengals' defensive line is going to look completely different this season, and the team even added some veteran secondary help.

Cincinnati Bengals safety Bryan Cook (6) attends training camp, Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, at Paycor Stadium in Downtown Cincinnati. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

The newest additions to this defense making the biggest impacts are defensive linemen Dexter Lawrence, Jonathan Allen, edge rusher Boye Mafe, and safety Bryan Cook.

It's been clear very early on in camp that this isn't the defense that Bengals fans are used to seeing. In a recent practice, Lawrence got a little too close for comfort to quarterback Joe Burrow. That has been one of the most talked about moments online with fans, but the play is a great example of what this defense needs to be.

No one wants to see Burrow hurt before a game is even played, but that wasn't Lawrence's intention. This defense is sending a message that if you don't want them to get to your quarterback, then you better stop them. Iron sharpens iron, and for the Bengals, each practice is making both units better.

The preparations are being made for a memorable season. Check out the full interview below:

"That's a top 10, top 5 defense" 👀@CameronWolfe | @MarcRoss | @chasebrown____ | @Bengals pic.twitter.com/Zy8EBbqNyJ

— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) August 9, 2026

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