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- NFL Nation is made up of 32 team-specific reporters who cover the NFL year-round across ESPN.com, ESPN television shows, ESPN Radio, ESPN+ and social media platforms. It was established ahead of the 2013 season.
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ESPN Writer- Eric Moody is a writer for fantasy football, men's and women's basketball, and sports betting at ESPN. Eric joined ESPN in 2021 after working as a senior fantasy analyst at Pro Football Network. Prior to that, he spent much of his career as a manager at a Fortune 100 financial services company.
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ESPN- Ben Solak joined ESPN in 2024 as a national NFL analyst. He previously covered the NFL at The Ringer, Bleeding Green Nation and The Draft Network.
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ESPN Analytics- Seth Walder is an analytics writer at ESPN, specializing in quantitative analysis. He is also a regular on "ESPN Bet Live" and helps cover sports betting. Seth has been at ESPN since 2017. He previously worked at the New York Daily News covering the Jets and Giants. You can follow Seth on X via @SethWalder.
Week 5 of the 2026 NFL season is here. Can the Raiders get back on track against the Patriots after losing their first game of the season? Will the undefeated Vikings keep rolling against the Saints? Who has the edge in Bears-Packers? How will Eagles-Jaguars play out in another edition of London football? And what can we expect from the 49ers' visit to Seattle?
We're here to get you ready for the action. First, our NFL Nation reporters take you inside the locker room with the best thing they heard this week, and ESPN Research provides a key stat to know. Then, analytics writer Seth Walder makes a bold prediction for each matchup, NFL analyst Ben Solak gives one reason to tune in to each game, fantasy analyst Eric Moody shares fantasy football intel and betting analyst Pamela Maldonado hits betting insights for each contest. We also have Football Power Index (FPI) game projections, and Maldonado, Moody and Walder all give us final score picks for every game.
Let's get into the full Week 5 slate, which culminates with "Monday Night Football" matchup between the Bills and Rams on ESPN. (Game times are Sunday unless otherwise noted, and all odds are via DraftKings.)
Jump to a matchup:
PHI-JAX | CHI-GB | LV-NE
MIN-NO | CIN-MIA | IND-PIT
HOU-TEN | NYG-WSH | CLE-NYJ
DEN-LAC | SF-SEA | DET-ARI
BAL-ATL | BUF-LAR
What ESPN Analytics says ...
Eagles (2-2) at Jaguars (3-1) in London
9:30 a.m. ET | NFL Network | JAX -7.5 (41.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Eagles: Philadelphia entered the week with significant offensive problems. The Eagles have gone three-and-out on a league-high 15 possessions and rank 25th in points per game (18.8), 29th in total yards per game (269.8) and are tied for fourth in most sacks allowed (12). Things went from bad to worse with right tackle Lane Johnson retiring and starting offensive lineman Cam Jurgens being traded to Baltimore. "I think it's ironic because my thing when I came in as a rookie was, 'Don't dip your toe in the water, drown in it and learn how to swim.' We're drowning right now, and we're learning how to swim," left tackle Jordan Mailata said. -- Tim McManus
What we're hearing on the Jaguars: An under-the-radar reason for the Jaguars' offensive success over the first month is how good they've been on third down. They're converting 51.1% (ranked third), and they've been especially good in third-and-short (3 yards or less), converting 10 of 13 chances (76.9%, ranked third). "The biggest reason is staying ahead of the chains and being more consistent first and second down, less penalties, less negative runs, sacks, all those things play a part in it," QB Trevor Lawrence said. -- Michael DiRocco
Stat to know: The Eagles have allowed the second-lowest QBR on deep passes (20-plus air yards) this season. Opponents have completed 27% of deep passes for zero touchdowns and two interceptions against Philly. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Jaguars will win by two touchdowns. Philadelphia is 2-2 and ranks 27th in EPA per play on offense and 25th on defense. That is rough. And in three of those games, the Eagles had the now-retired Johnson, too. We can and should think about these teams dramatically differently now than when the season began (for the Jaguars, this is a good thing!). -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: You can play a game called "how many Eagles players do I recognize?" as they take the field without Johnson (retired), TE Dallas Goedert (knee), WR DeVonta Smith (hamstring) and RB Saquon Barkley (hamstring) -- and now Jurgens is a Raven! If Willie Lampkin gets the start on the now sparse offensive line, as expected, he'll be the shortest Eagles offensive lineman (5-foot-11) to start in over 60 years. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Jaguars WR Parker Washington has scored at least 13 fantasy points in three of four games this season, so I wouldn't be too concerned about his 2.0-point Week 4 performance. He also had a 39-yard reception overturned. Washington is in a good spot to bounce back against a defense that has allowed the 10th-most fantasy points per game to WRs and has struggled against slot receivers. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The Eagles are 7-0 ATS (against the spread) as underdogs since 2024. Jacksonville gives up plenty of passing yards, so QB Jalen Hurts can keep drives alive with quick throws and his legs. The Jaguars can win by leaning on the run, but Philadelphia still makes passing touchdowns tough to come by. That should help the Eagles hang around and cover the spread. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Jaguars 24, Eagles 19
Moody's pick: Jaguars 30, Eagles 23
Walder's pick: Jaguars 31, Eagles 14
FPI prediction: JAX, 73.4% (by an average of 6.5 points)
Matchup must-reads: How will the Eagles move forward without Johnson? ... Why Jags play 26 of next 30 regular-season games away ... Tracking Hunter's 2026 season
Bears (3-1) at Packers (2-2)
1 p.m. ET | Fox | CHI -1.5 (45.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Bears: Coach Ben Johnson announced Tyson Bagent as the starting QB early in the week. Getting reacquainted with the silent cadence is paramount for what is expected to be a hostile environment at Lambeau Field. Bagent is no stranger to rivalry games, having gone head-to-head with Shippensburg during his years at Division II Shepherd, but being the starter for Bears-Packers carries a different weight. "This is one of the greatest rivalries in all of sports," Bagent said. "It's easy for the fans to get up for, easy for us to get up for, so it will certainly be a different feel out there." -- Courtney Cronin
What we're hearing on the Packers: During TE Tucker Kraft's rehab from last season's torn ACL, he said he saw no reason he couldn't return as the same player -- or even better. Through four games, he's tied for 15th among TEs in catches (15) and tied for 17th in receiving yards (148) with only one touchdown and has also battled the drops. "Statistically, it might not look like I'm playing better," Kraft said. "Some could even say that I might've lost my stinger. ... This week, try to get back to my roots, the kind of s--- I was on my first and second year when I was playing to the echo of the whistle and being hard on the defense." -- Rob Demovsky
Stat to know: The Packers' 22% pass block win rate is the worst by any team through the first four games of a season since ESPN began tracking in 2017. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Bears edge Dayo Odeyingbo will stay hot and record a sack for a fourth straight game. Odeyingbo looks improved, with a 22% pass rush win rate at edge that's above average for the position. And we all know the Packers' offensive line is struggling mightily. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: Do you remember the past two times the Bears and Packers played? Johnson and Packers coach Matt LaFleur had handshake drama. There's a rivalry reigniting ... and you're going to miss this game? -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Bears RBs D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai could have big games. Green Bay ranks 25th in run stop win rate and has allowed the third-most fantasy points per game to RBs. The Bears lead the league with 35.8 rushing attempts per game, and with QB Caleb Williams (hamstring) unlikely to play, they should lean on the run again. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: LaFleur is 11-3 ATS in his career against the Bears. Getting the ball out sooner can help Packers QB Jordan Love handle Chicago's blitz. The Bears' defense has improved against struggling offenses but still allows 5.9 yards per play. That gives Green Bay opportunities, and Bagent still has to prove he can lead Chicago to a road win and cover. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Packers 23, Bears 21
Moody's pick: Bears 27, Packers 21
Walder's pick: Bears 24, Packers 23
FPI prediction: CHI, 57.6% (by an average of 2 points)
Matchup must-reads: Johnson: Bagent will start at QB for Bears vs. Packers ... With Cooper out, Williams shines for Packers ... Packers LB Cooper has season-ending torn Achilles
Raiders (3-1) at Patriots (2-2)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | NE -3.5 (45.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Raiders: The Raiders' WR depth will be tested. With Jalen Nailor (concussion) expected to be sidelined, their healthy WR list includes Tre Tucker, Malik Benson, Cody White and Dareke Young. (Of course, the Raiders utilize TE Brock Bowers as a receiver.) Still, Las Vegas is going to need their wideouts to step up more, as Tucker is the only receiver with more than 20 targets. Second-year WR Dont'e Thornton Jr. (hamstring) returned to practice this week after beginning the season on IR. Las Vegas will need to make a roster move if it wants to activate him. -- Ryan McFadden
What we're hearing on the Patriots: Practice squad WR Kyle Dixon wore No. 89 in practice on the scout team as he played the role of Bowers. "[Bowers is] the No. 1 receiver. I wouldn't even call him a tight end," safety Kevin Byard said. "They're going to target him 10-plus times, and they're trying to do whatever they can to get the ball to him, basically create space for him to be able to run open." The Patriots had success last week against Bills TE Dalton Kincaid, holding him to one catch for 7 yards. -- Mike Reiss
Stat to know: The Patriots have had multiple turnovers in five straight games (including the playoffs), which is the longest active streak in the NFL. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Raiders OT Kolton Miller will prevent Patriots edge Dre'Mont Jones from recording a single pressure. Miller leads all tackles in pass block win rate this season. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: Maye bounced back in a big way last week, and the Raiders lost a tight one to the Chiefs. This might not have the name recognition of Jags-Bengals or Texans-Bills from earlier in the season, but this is a game between AFC playoff teams! AFC seeding might be decided here! -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Patriots QB Drake Maye finally broke through last week against the Bills, scoring 24.1 fantasy points after failing to top nine points in his first three games. He did it despite being pressured on a career-high 21 dropbacks. Maye now gets a Raiders defense that allowed 23.8 fantasy points to the Saints' Tyler Shough and 17 to the Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The Raiders have covered five straight games (4-1 straight up), the NFL's longest active streak. Their pass rush can keep Maye uncomfortable, even after last week's breakout. Raiders QB Kirk Cousins can take advantage of New England's troubles defending play-action, giving the Raiders a way to move the ball without relying on their own struggling running game. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Raiders 23, Patriots 21
Moody's pick: Patriots 28, Raiders 20
Walder's pick: Raiders 23, Patriots 22
FPI prediction: NE, 63.8% (by an average of 3.6 points)
Matchup must-reads: Patriots shut down Bills' Kincaid but have Raiders' Bowers, Mayer looming ...
Vikings (4-0) at Saints (1-3)
1 p.m. ET | Fox | MIN -2.5 (41.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Vikings: RB Aaron Jones Sr. is entering what is likely the final week of the heaviest early-season workload in his career. He has taken 72 carries through four games, seven more than his previous high (65 in 2020) and nearly double his previous nine-year average. Backup Jordan Mason's fractured thumb, and the slow introduction for rookie Demond Claiborne, has left Jones as the Vikings' only reliable runner. Mason is expected to return after the Vikings' Week 6 bye, and while coaches have lauded Jones' grit and stamina, he will benefit from the reduced workload. -- Kevin Seifert
What we're hearing on the Saints: The Saints are coming off an embarrassing loss to the Falcons on Monday, but they believe the team has responded well in the days since. The Saints will have to figure out how to jump-start their run game and correct some defensive mistakes to rebound. Saints edge rusher Chase Young said players are upset with how they played in Week 4. "And that's what you want to see. Dudes who have a sour taste in their mouth, dudes who are mad about it. I hope you mad, you get punched in your mouth, hopefully you ain't smiling," he said. -- Katherine Terrell
Stat to know: The Vikings' defense is allowing an NFL-low 12.8 points per game, their best mark through four games since 2016 (12.5). -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Saints will win by double digits. As remarkable as the Vikings' defense has been, it's hard to win week after week with a struggling offense. Kyler Murray has been at the helm only part of the time, but he ranks last in the league in QBR (27.6). I think this is the week it finally catches up with Minnesota. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: The Saints are 4-for-4 on watchable games this season. There were late comebacks against the Lions (loss) and Ravens (win), a barnburner against the Raiders and a hilariously bad run defense against Falcons last week. This is the tune-in team of the season! -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Jones has seen at least 22 touches in three consecutive games with Mason sidelined. He now faces a Saints defense allowing the most fantasy points per game to RBs. Minnesota's offensive line ranks third in run block win rate and should be able to impose its will on New Orleans' defensive front. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The under is 7-2 in Saints home games under coach Kellen Moore. Minnesota's relentless pressure can overwhelm New Orleans' depleted offensive line, leaving Shough little time to find WR Chris Olave downfield. Minnesota's own protection issues and Vikings WR Justin Jefferson's potential absence should make scoring difficult for Murray, too. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Saints 23, Vikings 17
Moody's pick: Vikings 26, Saints 23
Walder's pick: Saints 23, Vikings 13
FPI prediction: MIN, 55.1% (by an average of 1.3 points)
Matchup must-reads: Five reasons the Vikings' defense sits atop the NFL rankings ... How Saints can regroup, fix slow starts
Bengals (2-2) at Dolphins (0-4)
1 p.m. ET | Fox | CIN -6.5 (42.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Bengals: Cincinnati leads the NFL with 24 missed tackles on called pass plays, according to NFL Next Gen Stats. Miami ranks fourth in missed tackles forced by WRs on called pass plays. Group tackling and knowing when to trigger downhill will be a focal point for Cincinnati's defense. "If you're back there 15 yards, you should be able to see, 'Is this Dexter Lawrence II coming around? It's time to go,'" defensive coordinator Al Golden said. -- Ben Baby
What we're hearing on the Dolphins: Edge rusher Chop Robinson recorded 10 pressures and a sack in last week's loss and now faces a Bengals offensive line that has allowed nine sacks with the 19th-best pass block win rate through four games. Coach Jeff Hafley was pleased by Robinson's performance but offered a challenge to the 2024 first-round pick: "You had your 10 pressures and your sack, I love it. But can you do it again? Because if you don't, then it doesn't matter." -- Marcel Louis-Jacques
Stat to know: The Bengals' defense has 14 sacks this season, which is tied with the Texans for the third most (the Vikings have 16, and the Lions 15), despite having the lowest blitz percentage (17.5%). -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Bengals will average at least 5.0 yards per inside zone run. The Bengals run inside zone 33% of the time -- second most in the NFL -- and the Dolphins have allowed 4.6 yards per inside zone run, second most. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: If either Ja'Marr Chase (concussion) or Tee Higgins (groin/neck) can't play because of injury, the Bengals will likely turn to Dohnte Meyers, who went from CFL tryout to legitimate slot wideout. He's actually good! -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Dolphins RB Ollie Gordon II led the backfield in Week 4 in snaps, routes, touches and fantasy points (18). He now faces a Bengals defense that allowed 91 total yards to Jaguars' Bhayshul Tuten last week. Tuten could have had an even bigger day, but two touchdowns were wiped out by penalties, including a 44-yarder. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: Teams that are 0-4 or worse (Miami) are 26-14-1 ATS (65%) as underdogs since 2018. Miami can keep this close if either Chase or Higgins miss the game for the Bengals. Cincinnati struggles to run, and the Dolphins allow just 3.6 yards per carry. QB Malik Willis' legs offer a way to extend drives against a Bengals defense that's allowing 4.5 yards per rush. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Bengals 21, Dolphins 18
Moody's pick: Bengals 27, Dolphins 24
Walder's pick: Bengals 24, Dolphins 14
FPI prediction: CIN, 80.3% (by an average of 8.9 points)
Matchup must-reads: Bengals WR Higgins day-to-day with adductor injury, coach says
Colts (2-2) at Steelers (2-2)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | PIT -2.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Colts: The Steelers enter this game with eight takeaways, tied for second most in the league. That might not bode well for the Colts and QB Daniel Jones considering he is second with seven turnovers (four interceptions, three fumbles). Five of Jones' turnovers have come in the past two games alone, and it defies logic that the Colts have managed to win both contests. "I've got to do a good job keeping two hands on the ball and protecting it," Jones said. "Something I definitely have to do better." Jones committed a career-high five turnovers in a loss to Pittsburgh last season. -- Stephen Holder
What we're hearing on the Steelers: With a rainy forecast and injuries piling up among offensive skill players, Sunday could be a big day for TE Darnell Washington. Washington, who had four catches on six targets for 43 yards last season against Indianapolis, is one of QB Aaron Rodgers' most trusted pass catchers, as evidenced in his three consecutive red zone targets late in the fourth quarter of the loss to the Browns. "He's a mountain of a man," Rodgers said. "And he's got great catch radius. ... So, you just kind of got to put it in his stratosphere, and he usually comes down with it." -- Brooke Pryor
Stat to know: The Colts' minus-6 turnover margin this season is the worst in the NFL. Their two forced turnovers are tied for the fewest (Titans, Eagles and Cowboys). -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Rodgers will not take a single QB hit. The veteran actually isn't getting rid of the ball lightning quick this season like he did last year, but the Colts have the worst pass rush win rate in the league. I think Rodgers could have a comfortable day, especially if the Steelers get out to a lead. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: The Michael Pittman Jr. revenge game arc would have been fun ... before his foot injury. Instead, I suppose you'll just have to watch and see whether Rodgers and coach Mike McCarthy start yelling at each other again. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Steelers RB Jaylen Warren has 20 touches in each of the past two games and at least 15 fantasy points in both with Rico Dowdle (toe) out. Warren now faces a Colts defense that ranks 30th in run stop win rate and has allowed the seventh-most rushing yards per game. Indianapolis has also allowed the fourth-most receiving yards per game to RBs. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: Rodgers is 4-1 ATS as a home favorite with the Steelers. Indianapolis gives up big plays, and Warren can attack a vulnerable run defense without Rodgers needing another three-touchdown game. On the other side, Steelers edge rusher T.J. Watt can force Jones into hurried decisions. Pittsburgh also gets extra rest against a Colts team returning from London for another road game. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Steelers 24, Colts 17
Moody's pick: Steelers 21, Colts 19
Walder's pick: Steelers 23, Colts 16
FPI prediction: IND, 49.9% (by an average of 0.1 points)
Matchup must-reads: Colts' CB Gardner vows not to repeat 'embarrassing' effort ... Steelers QB Rodgers downplays heated exchange with McCarthy
Texans (0-4) at Titans (0-4)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | HOU -7.5 (38.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Texans: Houston has a new defensive playcaller. Coach DeMeco Ryans is taking over as the Texans' defense is 26th in points allowed per game (27.3) and 20th in yards (343.8 per game). Ryans hopes the move will provide a "spark" for a defense that has struggled. -- DJ Bien-Aime
What we're hearing on the Titans: WR Carnell Tate's 22 receptions and 268 yards leads all rookies. Coordinator Brian Daboll has been impressed by Tate so far. "He's smart with a big catch radius, so we move him around," Daboll said. "He runs good routes with long speed and gets on defenders and is growing with each and every game." This week, he'll be matched up against one of the top CB duos in Derek Stingley Jr. and Kamari Lassiter. -- Turron Davenport
Stat to know: The Texans have had a bit of a falloff. Houston has allowed nearly 10 points per game more this season than it did in 2025, when the Texans ranked second (17.4 per game). -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Titans WR Wan'Dale Robinson will record at least eight receptions. Robinson has a 61 open score but only 1.2 yards per route run. He's the only WR with an open score over 50 but yards per route run under 1.4. In other words: His production has been lagging his underlying performance level. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: The Texans haven't won a game since January! They even went 0-3 in the preseason, but now Houston has a good chance at getting its first win against a struggling Tennessee team (sorry, Titans fans). -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Tate had his best game of the season last week, finishing with a season-high 12 targets and 21.5 fantasy points. His rapport with QB Cam Ward continues to grow. He should be in a good spot against a Texans defense that has allowed the most fantasy points per game to WRs this season. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The under has hit in five straight Texans road games. Tennessee struggles to keep drives alive, and Houston's run defense can force Ward into carrying the offense. WR Nico Collins gives QB C.J. Stroud a boost, but Houston's struggling ground game still makes finishing drives hard. The Texans can win comfortably without Tennessee contributing enough to push this total over. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Texans 24, Titans 13
Moody's pick: Texans 24, Titans 19
Walder's pick: Texans 27, Titans 20
FPI prediction: HOU, 66.4% (by an average of 4.5 points)
Matchup must-reads: Texans' defense has gone from elite to struggling to close out ... Titans, Henry on different paths at the moment
Giants (3-1) at Commanders (1-3)
1 p.m. ET | Fox | WSH -3.5 (41.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Giants: Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson called blitzes on 51% of the Cardinals' dropbacks last week. That was up significantly from the 23% of plays in which he sent an extra pass rusher during the first three weeks of the season. It's part of the solution with Pro Bowl edge rusher Brian Burns (knee) out for the season. It's likely a trend that will continue against Washington QB Jayden Daniels. Daniels has completed 57.5% of his passes against the blitz since entering the NFL in 2024, the fifth-lowest rate during that time. -- Jordan Raanan
What we're hearing on the Commanders: With rain in the forecast -- potentially heavy at times -- Sunday's game could turn into a run fest. For Washington, that means it's good that it will have RG Sam Cosmi back from a concussion. It's also a huge help to get Daniels back. The Commanders aren't calling many designed runs for him, but he can still hurt teams on scrambles even with a brace on his left elbow. But the big test will be against Giants RB Cam Skattebo. "Skattebo is physical in so many ways," Washington defensive coordinator Daronte Jones said. New York will be committed to the run, ranking fifth in number of carries. But Washington, led by a strong front seven, ranks sixth in rushing yards allowed per game. -- John Keim
Stat to know: Skattebo has averaged 1.29 yards before contact per rush, ninth lowest in the NFL. The Commanders' defense has improved, allowing 2.02 yards before contact per rush this season (13th) after allowing 2.92 last season (30th). -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Commanders RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt will record a season-high in rushing, so 64 yards or more. I expect the Commanders to win this game, so he should have plenty of opportunities, and the Giants rank 28th in run stop win rate. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: Daniels should be back from his elbow injury, which is fun. Divisional games are also fun. Are either of the Giants or Commanders playing good football as of late? No. But that can be fun! -- Solak
Injuries: Giants | Commanders
Fantasy nugget: Giants TE Isaiah Likely has seen at least eight targets in three of four games this season and has averaged 5.5 receptions per game. QB Jameis Winston looked promising last week, and Likely now gets a Commanders defense that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points per game to TEs. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The over is 7-1 in the Commanders' past eight games, but both offenses have reasons to stall here. Washington's blitz can exploit Winston's struggles under pressure, especially when New York's ineffective first-down runs leave him needing to throw. Daniels' expected return for Washington comes with a restrictive brace, and the Giants have limited opponents' passing yardage. Neither offense consistently avoids third-and-longs. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Giants 24, Commanders 17
Moody's pick: Giants 24, Commanders 20
Walder's pick: Commanders 24, Giants 16
FPI prediction: WSH, 71.8% (by an average of 5.9 points)
Matchup must-reads: Giants' WR Nabers has sore knee, doesn't practice ... Daniels will be 'full go' vs. Giants ... Giants' Berrios says he'll undergo season-ending foot surgery
Browns (3-1) at Jets (1-3)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | NYJ -2.5 (39.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Browns: The resurgence of the Browns' defense has been at the center of Cleveland's three-game winning streak, but the unit could be shorthanded in the trenches Sunday. DTs Mason Graham (MCL, ankle) and Mike Hall Jr. (ankle) are dealing with injuries that will likely sideline them. Graham and Hall have combined for five of Cleveland's 12 sacks, as well as nine pressures, through four games. -- Daniel Oyefusi
What we're hearing on the Jets: Well, here's a silver lining: The Jets should have fresh legs on offense, considering they ran only 32 plays in last week's clunker against Chicago. They have many issues (third-down conversions, blitz pickup, WR Garrett Wilson's lack of involvement, to name three), but offensive coordinator Frank Reich is confident they will get them fixed. "[The offensive line] will be the reason we get it back on track," Reich said. -- Rich Cimini
Stat to know: Jets QB Geno Smith hasn't thrown an interception in 117 pass attempts this season, the fourth-longest streak without an interception to start a season in Jets history. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Browns QB Deshaun Watson will record a QBR under 30. Yes, he has played better. But I also think it has been overstated: Watson recorded just a 53 QBR last week, and that does not significantly move the needle on the type of player he will be going forward. The Jets' defense has been OK -- 17th best in EPA allowed per play -- and I think it helps pull out a New York win. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: Two of the least watchable teams of the past five years ... are suddenly kind of watchable! The Browns have fun rookie pass catchers, and the Jets actually have a stiff defense. It won't be the best game of the week, but it won't be slopball! -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Browns RB Quinshon Judkins hasn't been especially efficient, averaging only 3.0 yards per carry behind a offensive line that ranks 30th in run block win rate. However, he has seen at least 17 touches in three straight games. Judkins should have success against a Jets defense that is allowing the sixth-most fantasy points per game to RBs and ranks 31st in run stop win rate. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: Watson is 11-5 ATS in his career as an underdog of three points or fewer. The Jets have struggled to get stops lately, giving Cleveland's shorter passing game room to work. Watson's legs can help extend drives, and Cleveland's pass rush can stall possessions against Smith, who has taken too many sacks (12) despite throwing well when under pressure. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Browns 21, Jets 17
Moody's pick: Browns 21, Jets 17
Walder's pick: Jets 20, Browns 17
FPI prediction: NYJ, 55.4% (by an average of 1.4 points)
Matchup must-reads: How Browns' defense reemerged as a strength after Week 1 ... Jets searching for identity as losses become 'tough to stomach'
Broncos (2-2) at Chargers (0-4)
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | DEN -3.5 (41.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Broncos: Coach Sean Payton summed up the team's 2-2 start with "certainly, this isn't championship football,'' and much of that assessment is pointed directly at an offense that is near the bottom of the league in scoring (27th), total yards per game (27th), rushing yards per game (29th) and QBR (23rd). Payton announced Thursday that he is taking over offensive playcalling. Look for the Broncos to be on the hunt for an early-down commitment to the run and some play-action shots to try to get the ball to WRs Jaylen Waddle and Courtland Sutton for a spark. -- Jeff Legwold
What we're hearing on the Chargers: The Chargers' injuries are piling up; they could play Sunday's game without both starting OTs and WRs, first- and second-string guards and starting safety Derwin James Jr (hamstring). It makes for an uphill battle as Los Angeles tries to get its first win. Still, coach Jim Harbaugh said the players stepping up, particularly the rookie O-linemen, have encouraged him. The Chargers played four rookies against the Seahawks after injuries decimated the group. "I saw a confident demeanor, one that was ready to accept the challenge," Harbaugh said. -- Kris Rhim
Stat to know: Chargers QB Justin Herbert has thrown an interception in five straight games. This is the longest active streak in the NFL and one shy of longest streak by a Chargers QB since Philip Rivers had eight straight in 2016-17. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Broncos CB Ja'Quan McMillian will allow no more than one reception. McMillian is a good player, and with Pat Surtain II (ankle) out and potentially Riley Moss (ribs) gone, too, I expect the Chargers will be more inclined to target receivers outside against Denver than they normally would be. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: Payton is taking over playcalling duties, which all but guarantees a good watch. A good day on offense means it will be fun to see Denver score points. A bad day on offense means we will see tense sideline shots of Payton, offensive coordinator Davis Webb and quarterback Bo Nix. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Nix has topped 20 fantasy points just once this season and has only 14 rushing attempts for 25 yards after averaging 20.9 rushing yards per game last season. The Chargers have allowed 16.9 fantasy points per game to QBs. Denver could also lean on the run against a Chargers defense allowing the 11th-most rushing yards per game. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: These teams are 2-6 combined to the under this season. Nix isn't creating much downfield, and the Chargers' improving pass defense makes a breakout tougher. Herbert is working behind an injured offensive line and receiver Ladd McConkey (foot) is also banged up. Both quarterbacks could struggle to keep drives alive, leaving fewer scoring chances and more possessions ending in punts. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Broncos 20, Chargers 17
Moody's pick: Broncos 21, Chargers 20
Walder's pick: Broncos 27, Chargers 18
FPI prediction: DEN, 50% (by an average of 0.1 points)
Matchup must-reads: Do the Broncos have a reliable No. 1 RB? ... Surtain is out with an ankle injury: How will the Broncos adjust? ... Chargers OC McDaniel: Calls for firing 'comes with the territory'
49ers (4-0) at Seahawks (3-1)
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | SEA -3 (45.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the 49ers: Working as a pregame analyst for Super Bowl LX, coach Kyle Shanahan said he was "not at all" into watching the rival Seahawks win the Lombardi Trophy on the Niners' home field. Shanahan left in the third quarter, but he and his team acknowledged this week that this game brings plenty of motivation. Not only did Seattle celebrate its win in San Francisco's locker room, the Seahawks also sent the Niners home in the NFC divisional round. "I think playing a divisional game always feels a little bit more," Shanahan said. "Playing a big rival like the Seahawks always does. Them being the Super Bowl winners, how the last game went, so everything." -- Nick Wagoner
What we're hearing on the Seahawks: When the Seahawks beat the 49ers in Week 18 and in the divisional round of the playoffs last season, their defense held San Francisco to a combined 409 yards and nine points. That was then. The 49ers' offense now? Second in the NFL in scoring at 30.5 points per game, and QB Brock Purdy has yet to take a sack. "He's a hell of a player," coach Mike Macdonald said of Purdy. "He can throw at all three levels. He throws on time. He throws it into windows with timing that makes it hard to defend." -- Brady Henderson
Stat to know: Purdy's 89.6 Total QBR is the highest by any quarterback through four games since 2020 NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers (90.6). -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey will record double-digit negative rush yards over expected ... in a San Francisco win. McCaffrey has been better running the ball this season after an inefficient 2025, but this is still the Seahawks' defense. If the 49ers are going to win this game, it will be because Purdy and the passing game stay hot. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: This is the game of the week. The Seahawks' defense stymied Shanahan in two of the three games they played last season. I'm sure you can bet that Shanahan has a counterpunch (or several counterpunches) lined up for the first matchup of this season. It's a heavyweight fight atop the NFC! -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Seahawks RB Emanuel Wilson shined last week with rookie Jadarian Price (chest) sidelined, finishing with 22 touches and 27 fantasy points. Wilson should see another sizable workload against a 49ers defense allowing the eighth-most fantasy points per game to RBs. San Francisco also ranks 24th in run stop win rate, giving Seattle's offensive line a favorable matchup. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The 49ers are 1-5 ATS as road underdogs since 2022. Seattle's defense can take away Purdy's downfield options and make San Francisco settle for field goals. Macdonald has consistently frustrated this offense, and the 49ers' reduced pass rush without Nick Bosa (calf) gives QB Sam Darnold time to find WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba and keep Seattle ahead in a tight game. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Seahawks 23, 49ers 20
Moody's pick: Seahawks 26, 49ers 23
Walder's pick: 49ers 26, Seahawks 23
FPI prediction: SF, 55.7% (by an average of 1.4 points)
Matchup must-reads: Is it time to panic about 49ers' injuries? Breaking down IR, deadline ... Seahawks decide not to sign RB Mixon after physical ... NFL, union clarify celebration rules, OK drinking gestures ... Macdonald laments 'unacceptable' penalties
Lions (2-2) at Cardinals (1-3)
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | DET -5.5 (54.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Lions: Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing joined coach Dan Campbell's staff in 2026 after spending the past three seasons in the same position for the Cardinals. Petzing is certainly familiar with the Cardinals' system, but Arizona DC Nick Rallis is also aware of Petzing's playcalling tendencies. Petzing remains appreciative of his Arizona experience -- both personally and professionally -- but said he is approaching this as just another game. "They know each other very well, and there'll be a little bit of that chess game that'll go into it," Campbell said of Petzing and Rallis. "So, to me, that comes down to how we get our guys prepared and how we are able to make adjustments in game." -- Eric Woodyard
What we're hearing on the Cardinals: Arizona has lost three in a row and feels a sense of urgency to get a win, QB Jacoby Brissett said. But as Arizona heads into the second quarter of the season, it was able to take stock of the first four games and take a deeper look at what worked, what didn't and where it can improve. The Cardinals are averaging almost 22 points per game, so the offense has shown it can be productive, but it has translated to just one win. "I think we started to build our identity of what we wanted to be," Brissett said of the first four games. "Don't ask me what, because I won't tell you." -- Josh Weinfuss
Stat to know: The Lions have allowed a league-worst 31.8 points per game, their most allowed through four games of a season since 2022 (35.3). -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Cardinals TE Trey McBride will record double-digit receptions. McBride is already a focus of the Cardinals' offense, but the Lions are also allowing targets to TEs on 27% of opponent dropbacks, fourth most in the NFL. That's the most by any team that hasn't faced either the Raiders (with Brock Bowers) or Cardinals. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: The Cardinals' offense has the lowest explosive play rate in the NFL. The Lions' defense has the highest explosive play rate surrendered. Tune in to find out which trend holds! -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Cardinals WR Michael Wilson has seen at least 13 targets and scored at least 16 fantasy points in each of the past two games. Only McBride has more targets for Arizona this season, 46 to Wilson's 44. Wilson now gets a Lions defense that has allowed the most fantasy points per game to WRs. The Panthers' Tetairoa McMillan scored 45.2 fantasy points against Detroit last week. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The over has hit in all four Lions games this season. QB Jared Goff should have time to pick apart Arizona's predictable coverage, with several reliable targets to keep drives moving. Detroit's secondary has struggled regardless of its adjustments, giving Brissett opportunities to answer. Arizona doesn't need a sudden offensive transformation when Detroit keeps letting opponents keep the chains moving and score. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Lions 34, Cardinals 27
Moody's pick: Lions 33, Cardinals 23
Walder's pick: Lions 30, Cardinals 20
FPI prediction: DET, 69.3% (by an average of 5.2 points)
Matchup must-reads: TE LaPorta says extension talks with Lions at 'stalemate' ... Cardinals LT Johnson out for season after tearing biceps
Ravens (3-1) at Falcons (2-2)
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | ATL -3 (43.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Ravens: The Ravens, who have not allowed a 100-yard rusher in 18 straight games, face their biggest challenge of the season. Falcons RB Bijan Robinson has recorded three straight 100-yard rushing games in primetime, averaging 178 yards on the ground during that streak. Safety Kyle Hamilton said it's a necessity for every player on defense to swarm to Robinson when he has the ball. "Eleven [players] are needed," Hamilton said, "because he can make 10 miss." -- Jamison Hensley
What we're hearing on the Falcons: The Falcons' defense has been dominant against the run, allowing a league-low 48.3 yards on the ground per game -- nearly 30 yards per game fewer than the next lowest team. But they also have not been completely tested yet, at least not from a running back like Derrick Henry. The Ravens star is fourth in the NFL in rushing yards (374), and Atlanta will need to contain him to fully prove its defense as a truly formidable one against the run, which is a team goal. -- Marc Raimondi
Stat to know: Falcons WR Drake London has grabbed 48.2% of the team's receiving yards, the NFL's second-highest mark behind the Seahawks' Jaxon Smith-Njigba (48.3%). -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Falcons CB C.J. Henderson will record an interception. Henderson has been in tight coverage -- within 1 yard of the receiver he's matched up against -- 22% of the time, per NFL Next Gen Stats, fourth best among outside corners with at least 100 coverage snaps. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: This is the Falcons' third consecutive primetime game. Which means we get a third uninterrupted viewing of Robinson's greatness. And soon Robinson will be a rare running back with a legitimate MVP case. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Ravens WR Zay Flowers should still be heavily involved if QB Tyler Huntley starts for Lamar Jackson (ankle). Flowers has accounted for 49% of the Ravens' receiving yards and is averaging 6.3 yards per route run this season. Huntley has made 16 career starts, so Baltimore isn't turning to an inexperienced QB. Flowers also gets a Falcons defense allowing the fifth-most fantasy points per game to WRs. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The over is 6-1 in the Ravens' past seven games and 27-11 since 2024. If Jackson starts, his passing can keep Baltimore scoring even against Atlanta's tough run defense. Flowers provides the big-play threat, and Robinson gives Atlanta a way to answer. With QB Michael Penix Jr. available, the Falcons have passing upside to keep both offenses trading scores. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Falcons 24, Ravens 23
Moody's pick: Falcons 28, Ravens 27
Walder's pick: Ravens 23, Falcons 17
FPI prediction: ATL, 69.3% (by an average of 5.2 points)
Matchup must-reads: How do the Ravens plan to stop RB Robinson? ... Resurgent Falcons score 80 points in two-game winning streak
Bills (3-1) at Rams (2-2)
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | LAR -3 (54.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Bills: Coming off a game in which his Bills secondary got beaten roundly enough that Patriots QB Drake Maye won AFC Offensive Player of the Week, coach Joe Brady knows the challenges his DBs are due to face in WRs Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. Don't expect the Bills to make personnel changes unless CBs Dee Alford (ankle) and Christian Benford (toe) return, but do expect some philosophical adjustments. Speaking of DC Jim Leonhard, Brady said "He knows what we have to continue to improve on. He's not just stuck in his way of: 'We're going to keep doing this.'" -- Nick Suss
What we're hearing on the Rams: The Rams have the NFL's second-ranked pass defense (145.5 passing yards per game allowed) this season, which is a vast improvement from last season, when the Rams ranked 19th, allowing an average of 216.7 passing yards per game. The biggest addition for the Rams' secondary this offseason was All-Pro CB Trent McDuffie, who has a 20.1 passer rating allowed in coverage in 2026, per NFL Next Gen Stats (second lowest among CBs with at least 10 targets). -- Sarah Barshop
Stat to know: Bills QB Josh Allen and Rams QB Matthew Stafford are the only players with at least 50 passing/rushing touchdowns since start of 2025 season (each has 52). -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Bills DT Deone Walker will record a sack. Here's a number that caught me off guard: Walker leads all DTs in pressures this season, with 15. That's the same number as Raiders' Maxx Crosby and Texans' Danielle Hunter. He might just get home against Stafford. -- Walder
Why you should watch this game: The last time the Bills and Rams played in 2024, the Bills won 44-42. Allen had three passing touchdowns and three rushing touchdowns. This game features two of the NFL's heavyweights -- you're going to miss that this time around? -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Stafford scored just 9.6 fantasy points in Week 4, but this is a good spot for him to bounce back. He has Nacua and Adams against a Bills defense that has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points per game to QBs. This game also has one of the highest totals on the slate. See Week 5 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The Rams have covered four straight games at home. Their pass defense can make Allen work for yards, and Stafford gets a friendlier matchup against Buffalo's vulnerable secondary. Adams can attack downfield, and RB Kyren Williams gives Los Angeles balance. That combination gives the Rams ways to keep scoring while making Buffalo earn its points in response. Read more. -- Maldonado
Maldonado's pick: Rams 30, Bills 27
Moody's pick: Rams 33, Bills 30
Walder's pick: Rams 34, Bills 28
FPI prediction: LAR, 59% (by an average of 2.3 points)
Matchup must-reads: Bills CB Hairston addresses struggles ... McVay: Rams coaches will 'learn' from incident with Eagles fans