NFL: Philadelphia Eagles at Washington Commanders
Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
Week 5 of the NFL season delivered several major storylines, from quarterback struggles and coaching questions to breakout performances and significant injuries. Several young players continued to make strong cases for bigger roles as the season moves forward, and veterans could see less playing time going forward.
MORE: 3 NFL teams that should be worried after Week 5
Seattle made too many mistakes against San Francisco
Oct 4, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) throws a pass against the Los Angeles Chargers during the first half at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
Seattle had opportunities against San Francisco but simply made too many mistakes. The Seahawks lost two fumbles and ultimately fell 32-29 to the undefeated 49ers.
Sam Darnold struggled under pressure, throwing two interceptions while rarely having enough time to operate comfortably in the pocket. Against an aggressive defense, those mistakes proved costly.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba still delivered with five catches for 102 yards and a touchdown, but Seattle desperately needs another receiver to emerge. Tory Horton deserves consideration for more opportunities if the coaching staff believes he can handle them.
Emanuel Wilson also continued to provide a spark, finishing with 72 total yards and a touchdown.
Eagles have reached a dangerous point
There is a growing sense of disarray surrounding Philadelphia. The Eagles lost to Jacksonville 19-17 in London, dropping to 2-3, and the offense managed only 22 rushing yards.
At this point, it would not be shocking if Nick Sirianni’s job became a legitimate midseason discussion. The Eagles have too much talent to look this disjointed.
Will Shipley also suffered an injury and did not return. If Saquon Barkley cannot return in Week 6, Dameon Pierce could be forced into the starting role.
Darius Cooper continues to make big plays, but his long-term opportunities could become more limited once DeVonta Smith returns.
Jordan Love and Packers offense finally explode
Oct 4, 2026; Tampa, Florida, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) sets the play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
Green Bay’s offense looked completely different in its 31-7 destruction of Chicago. Jordan Love threw for 367 yards and two touchdowns, with both scores going to Christian Watson.
Watson was sensational, catching six passes for 143 yards and two touchdowns, while Matthew Golden added six catches for 123 yards. Tucker Kraft also contributed five receptions for 64 yards.
The biggest surprise may have been MarShawn Lloyd. The running back scored twice and gave Green Bay the physical presence in the backfield that the offense has been missing.
The Packers also forced five turnovers and committed none themselves, turning a divisional matchup into a rout.
Jets may have found something in Braelon Allen
The New York Jets got a huge performance from Braelon Allen, who rushed for 116 yards and a touchdown. The rookie David Bailey also continued his impressive season, recording three sacks in the Jets’ win over Cleveland.
Allen’s performance should force the Jets to rethink how they distribute touches once Breece Hall returns. Allen has earned a significant role based on what he has shown.
Garrett Wilson also reminded everyone why he remains one of the league’s most dangerous receivers against man coverage, finishing with seven catches for 104 yards and a touchdown.
The Jets did lose tight end Kenyon Sadiq to a concussion, creating another injury concern.
Steelers continue to ride Jaylen Warren
NFL: Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers
Sep 27, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren (30) runs during the third quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Jaylen Warren was once again one of the best players on the field for Pittsburgh, finishing with 188 total yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns.
His ability to consistently create explosive plays has become a major part of Pittsburgh’s offensive identity. The Steelers also received another strong performance from Pat Freiermuth, who caught two touchdown passes from Aaron Rodgers.
Pittsburgh did suffer an injury to Roman Wilson, who left with a dislocated finger. Rookie Germie Bernard also received significant opportunities, seeing nine targets and becoming an increasingly intriguing part of the passing attack.
Chargers offense has become a major problem
The Los Angeles Chargers’ offense has become one of the biggest concerns in the NFL. Only Denver has scored fewer points than Los Angeles entering Week 6, and Justin Herbert’s performance against the Broncos highlighted just how stagnant the unit has become. Herbert finished with only 121 passing yards and one touchdown in a 23-17 loss.
That number is startling for a quarterback of Herbert’s caliber. Some quarterbacks can throw for 121 yards in a single quarter. Herbert needed an entire game to reach that total.
The Chargers also continue to lose weapons. Tre Harris left Sunday’s game with a hamstring injury, adding another name to an already lengthy list that includes Ladd McConkey and Quentin Johnston. Omarion Hampton managed only 33 yards on 14 carries, while Kimani Vidal produced 57 rushing yards and a touchdown on eight carries.
That does not necessarily mean Vidal should suddenly become RB1, but it does raise legitimate questions about whether Hampton deserves to dominate the backfield right now.
Brock Bowers remains almost impossible to stop
Dec 7, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers (89) reacts after catching a touchdown against the Denver Broncos during the first half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The Raiders’ Week 5 loss to New England was ugly, but Brock Bowers continued to show why he is one of the most spectacular young players in the NFL.
Bowers caught eight passes for 110 yards and a touchdown despite Las Vegas being overwhelmed in a 45-17 loss.
Ashton Jeanty was active and finished with 10 carries for 27 yards while adding three receptions for 50 yards. There are reports of a possible plantar fasciitis issue surrounding Jeanty, but that will need to be monitored closely before drawing conclusions.
The game became such a blowout that Fernando Mendoza received his first professional snaps. The young quarterback has significant potential, but there is also value in allowing him to learn behind an experienced veteran such as Kirk Cousins.