Week 5 Winners & Losers: Biggest Takeaways From Every Game! (10/11 Fantasy Football Podcast)

Jones left the game but returned in Week 5, avoiding a more serious injury concern; his status remains stable heading into the next matchup.

Jones has practiced with a knee brace each of the last three weeks and left the game today before returning; he appears to be playing through an injury that is likely not allowing him to operate at 100 percent. At 31-32 years old with known injury history, the 49ers (5-0) will likely reduce his workload when Jordan Mason returns, especially on early downs.

St. Brown has scored only 40.3 fantasy points in PPR over his last three games combined, raising concerns about his production; the source suggests buying low if available, noting he's entering his bye week.

St. Brown received 11 targets in Week 5 and 11 targets the prior week, maintaining high target volume despite recent scoring concerns.

The source calls Bo Nix a big loser across the board. Despite a good touchdown throw to Cortlin Sutton in the second half, Nix is described as struggling this season. The source notes he's had only half a year where he looked good, and even when down seven points in the second half against the Chargers in week five, he couldn't elevate his play. The source expresses concern that Nix has taken two steps back this year, undermining the preseason optimism around his receivers.

Braylon Allen was a Week 5 winner with 24 carries, 116 yards, and a touchdown despite poor weather conditions and a fumble and drop; the source projects him as at worst a number-two running back and potentially a borderline number-one if he continues to receive this volume, contingent on Breece Hall remaining sidelined.

With Brees Hall out, Braylon Allen is functioning as at worst a number two running back and potentially a borderline number one if he maintains current workload; the source notes he's a better version of what Olly Gordon offers based on his running ability and offensive fit, though more passing game involvement would be ideal.

Allen may be emerging as a threat to Breece Hall's backfield role; source raised this as a question for discussion.

Braylon Allen's projection as a number-two running back or borderline number-one is contingent on Breece Hall remaining sidelined; if Hall returns, Allen's role and fantasy value would diminish.

Hall's role may be threatened by Braylon Allen; source raised this as a question for discussion, indicating potential backfield competition.

Source recommends considering Brenton Strange off the waiver wire as a potential pickup following his performance in this game.

Bucky Irving scored 31 points in Week 5, placing him among the week's top scorers.

Bucky Irving scored 31 points in Week 5, placing him among the top scorers of the week.

Stroud has scored more than 20 fantasy points in all three games with Nico Collins on the field, demonstrating strong fantasy production when his top receiver is healthy; the source advises not overlooking him.

Tate showed promise early but may have been overrated too quickly after one strong game against an overmatched Titans defense; source projects him as a wide receiver three rest of season, cautioning that the Titans matchup was not representative of typical weekly competition.

Despite a slow start with three or fewer catches in three of five games, the source identifies a buy-low opportunity; Chase Brown didn't score more than 13.1 PPR fantasy points in his first seven games last season before going "berserk," suggesting similar trajectory potential; he would be redrafted as a third-round pick at this point rather than earlier, and should be matchup-proof if receiving adequate target volume.

Chase Brown has been limited in receiving opportunities through five games, recording three or fewer catches in three of five contests and only one game with 11 catches; despite facing defenses allowing 3.4 to 4.1 yards per carry, he underperformed against the Dolphins (4.1 yards per carry allowed) and the overall schedule hasn't been as favorable as it appears on paper.

Chase Brown was the biggest loser of Week 5 despite facing Miami's atrocious run defense. He had 13 carries for 39 yards with a longest run of 7 yards, did not have the most carries on his team (Samadja Piran had one more), and fumbled early when he had only 6 carries. He has 12-plus PPR points in just one of his last four games with no touchdowns in those games. His snap rate was 60%, which is low. The source says expectations must be lowered for Chase Brown, though there may be a buy-low opportunity given his talent and the Bengals' offensive potential when healthy.

Olave's poor stat line in the Saints loss is attributed to the combination of limited offensive touches (Saints had the ball for only 20:23) and Derek Carr being under pressure throughout the game; the source views this as a reflection of quarterback and offensive line struggles rather than Olave's individual performance.

Christian Watson was identified as one of the top five scorers in Week 5, indicating strong fantasy performance.

Goedert returned to action and had a great day; source notes his return as a positive development for the Eagles offense alongside the expectation that the team will get healthier over the next month.

Harris, who was with the Patriots and experienced their 17-different-running-backs-per-game approach, confirms that splitting carries among multiple backs is the worst situation for a running back; you cannot get into a rhythm or develop feel for opponent tendencies.

Jones is one of two primary targets in Jameis Winston's high-volume passing game for the Giants, receiving 20 targets alongside Malik Nabors in the Commanders tie. The source recommends holding Jones despite the Giants' inconsistent record, as Winston's volume-dependent approach ensures consistent target volume; even a 10-15 point reduction from recent highs still yields strong production.

Source questions whether the Eagles found something in Darius Cooper as a potential consistent threat on the other side of the offense, possibly from a touchdown perspective, suggesting he could be an emerging option for the team.

Mooney had a notable sideline exchange with Jameis Winston during the Giants-Commanders tie, suggesting potential friction or role uncertainty in the Giants' receiving corps despite Winston's high-volume passing approach.

Montgomery left with a groin injury in Week 5; his status for the upcoming game against the Jaguars is uncertain, with Woody Marks seeing increased workload in his absence.

The source identifies Davis Webb as a winner in week five, contrasting his performance with the struggles of Tyler Shuck and other quarterbacks.

Samuel left with a hamstring injury in the third quarter of Week 5 and was immediately ruled out, creating uncertainty for his availability in upcoming games.

Boston scored a touchdown in a difficult Jets-Browns game where the passing game was largely shut down by weather and defensive pressure; he was only started in 42% of leagues, making the touchdown a rare bright spot for wide receivers in this matchup.

Carr was intercepted twice in a Saints loss, with the second interception a desperation throw at game end; the source characterizes the Saints offense as flushed for fantasy purposes due to poor execution and limited offensive opportunities.

Watson had terrible numbers in the Jets-Browns game and was particularly awful at the end of the game; while he was sacked eight times which contributed to his struggles, his individual performance was poor, including missing Isaiah Bond wide open in the end zone.

Smith was absent from the Eagles' game against Jacksonville, contributing to the team's pass-heavy approach being limited to Jalen Hurts and other receivers; his status for upcoming games remains unclear from this context.

Drake May was identified as one of the top five scorers in Week 5, indicating strong fantasy performance in the week's games.

Drake May was QB1 in Week 5 with a second career 300-yard game, running and throwing effectively without needing Romeo Dobbs. The source notes he's been QB1 back-to-back weeks and looks great; he hasn't faced significant pass rush pressure, and his upcoming schedule doesn't feature many defenses that will pressure him heavily. He's one week closer to A.J. Brown's return.

Drake May scored 47.5 fantasy points in Week 5 after being ranked ninth the previous week and placed on the Worryometer two weeks prior; the source acknowledges the low ranking was due to concerns about turnovers and appearing lost, but credits May with a strong bounce-back performance.

Nabers had a fortuitous touchdown run but otherwise struggled, averaging only 15 yards on seven attempts; the Chargers' run game and offensive line are poor, making him a risky fantasy option who will have games where he averages two yards per carry.

Nabers is part of a three-way running back split for the Chargers, which severely limits his fantasy value; analysts note that splitting carries among three backs is the worst situation for a running back, as it prevents rhythm and understanding of opponent tendencies.

Wilson is described as amazing despite the difficult Jets-Browns game conditions; the source notes he holds the ball for extended periods, suggesting strong hands and reliability even in adverse circumstances.

Smith's performance was highly dependent on offensive line protection; when receivers were open on time and he wasn't pressured, he looked like a competent NFL quarterback, but as soon as the Browns applied pressure, his performance crumbled, suggesting his fantasy value is tied to pass protection quality.

Bond had a couple of nice catches but was plagued by terrible drops in the Jets-Browns game; he was also wide open in the end zone on a play where Gino Smith missed him, highlighting execution issues rather than opportunity concerns.

Isaiah Likely scored 32 points in Week 5, tied with Joe Burrow for one of the highest-scoring performances of the week.

Isaiah Likely tied with Joe Burrow at 32 points in decimal scoring in Week 5, making him one of the top scorers of the week.

McCarthy entered the Giants-Commanders tie in limited snaps, including a couple of carries, but the source expects the Giants to remain dependent on Jameis Winston's passing volume going forward, limiting McCarthy's offensive role.

Ja'Cory Krosky-Merritt faces a brutal upcoming schedule for Washington; the source would trade him away given the Commanders' difficult slate featuring San Francisco, Philadelphia, Los Angeles Rams, and Houston, and would take something for him rather than hold.

Against Jacksonville, Hurts threw 40 passes on only 25 minutes of possession, reflecting a pass-heavy game plan forced by injuries to running backs and receivers; the source characterizes this as a one-off adjustment rather than a sustainable shift in offensive philosophy.

Jameis Winston scored 31 points in Week 5, placing him among the week's top scorers.

Jameis Winston was terrible in the first half against Washington (7 of 16, 72 yards, no touchdowns) but then turned into an elite deep ball thrower in the second half, which is characteristic of his play style.

Jameis Winston scored 31 points in Week 5, placing him among the top scorers of the week.

Winston delivered a 326-yard, three-touchdown performance (nearly 32 fantasy points) in the Giants-Commanders tie, described as 'inevitable' by the source. With 20 targets going to two receivers (Malik Nabors and Daniel Jones), Winston's volume-dependent passing game should sustain high-volume weeks regardless of game script.

Williams had a poor Week 5 with only two catches for 47 yards, exemplifying the inconsistency of his season; the source notes this is characteristic of the Jameson Williams experience.

Despite the Week 5 dud, the source is high on Williams after two good games in a row, suggesting a potential turnaround in his consistency.

Jared Goff was identified as one of the top five scorers in Week 5, indicating strong fantasy performance.

The source argues against selling high on Goff, noting he's scored 20+ fantasy points in every game and plays with one of the worst defenses in the NFL, supporting continued production.

Jaden Daniels scored 31 points in Week 5, placing him among the week's top scorers.

Jaden Daniels scored 31 points in Week 5, placing him among the top scorers of the week.

Jaylen Daniels demonstrated rushing upside in Week 5 despite concerns about his physical capabilities and missing Stefan Diggs and Terry McLaurin at full health; the rushing production is what fantasy managers hoped to see from him and represents his primary fantasy appeal, though the source notes this level of rushing won't occur weekly.

Daniels demonstrated his rushing upside with dominant leg usage in Week 5, showcasing the kind of dual-threat capability that makes him valuable in fantasy; while the source notes he won't replicate this weekly, his willingness to run and use his legs is a key reason for his fantasy appeal.

Jaden Daniels returned from an elbow injury in Week 5 and demonstrated running ability in poor weather; the source recommends carrying a backup quarterback due to ongoing injury risk despite his strong performance.

Jaden Daniels scored 32.3 fantasy points in Week 5 against the Giants in his first game back from an elbow injury; the source supports starting him rest of season while noting he demonstrated running ability in poor weather conditions and performed without Stephon Diggs and with Terry McLaurin at less than 100%, though a backup quarterback should be carried due to injury risk.

The source references Jaden Daniels' performance in the Giants-Commanders game, noting he wasn't paying close attention to the end of the game and making a light reference to Daniels also not being fully engaged at the finish, implying a lack of awareness or execution in a critical moment.

Jaden Daniels should not have a fear of re-injury with his elbow, which means if he's going to run, that's a great sign for his fantasy production; his rushing upside is a key factor to monitor going forward.

The source's biggest fear with Jaden Daniels is that if Washington falls out of playoff contention, the team could shut him down due to his elbow injury concerns, which would impact his fantasy value down the stretch.

Jaden Daniels is not expected to be a dominant passer in his current state of health and with his current team; the source projects him in the six to ten range at quarterback depending on scoring format, unless he continues to produce with his legs.

Jalen Warren was identified as one of the top five scorers in Week 5, indicating strong fantasy performance.

When asked whether to prefer Garrett Wilson or Jalen Warren, the source chose Warren, citing concerns that other pass catchers will eventually return for the Jets (including Brees Hall), which could reduce Wilson's target share, making Warren the safer long-term value play.

Warren may be emerging as a factor in the backfield alongside Rico Dowdle; source raised this as a question for discussion.

The source prefers Warren over Allen in a choice between the two, citing that pass catchers will eventually return for the Jets and Breece Hall will be back, which may reduce his workload, but still favors him as the better option.

Love appears to have hit the rookie wall in Week 3 and preseason Week 1, showing declining engagement; the source speculates he may have an unresolved ankle injury that's affecting his performance and mindset.

Joe Burrow scored 32 points in Week 5, tied with Isaiah Likely for one of the highest-scoring performances of the week.

Joe Burrow was tied with Isaiah Likely at 32 points in decimal scoring in Week 5, making him one of the top scorers of the week.

Mason is expected to return and will likely see heavy usage as a one-B back on early downs, especially given Aaron Jones' age (31-32) and injury history; the 49ers are 5-0 and thinking about January, suggesting they will manage Jones' workload and increase Mason's role.

The source expects the Packers' running game to remain weak even when Jacobs returns, citing persistent offensive line issues and the team's preference for downfield passing; Jacobs won't restore the backfield to prior production levels.

Herbert had a poor performance in the Chargers' 23-17 loss to Denver, with pathetic interceptions and bad fumbles; the source notes the Chargers' defense played poorly, but Herbert's turnovers were a significant factor in the loss.

Raymond had a great day in Week 5 and was dropped from a shared league team in favor of Carnell Tate, a move the source regrets; demonstrates Raymond's current production value.

Mitchell is interesting to have on your bench, but the Chargers have moved to a three-way running back split; the source would like to think Mitchell could be used more as an explosive option out of the backfield catching passes, but the current committee approach limits his upside.

The source expected Mitchell to be used more as an explosive option out of the backfield catching passes, as the Ravens did last week, but they didn't deploy him that way in Week 5 despite the struggling run game.

Drake had a very low route participation rate in the Jets-Browns game, suggesting limited involvement in the passing game despite the Jets' offensive struggles.

Drake had a very low route participation rate of 23%, which is concerning for his fantasy value; Mason Taylor was at 63% route participation, suggesting Taylor may have taken Drake off the field. Drake is likely to get dropped in many leagues and faces the Dolphins in Week 7.

Murray posted his best game with 20 fantasy points in Week 5 but remains a streaming/backup option rather than a hold through his bye week; his fantasy value is heavily dependent on running volume—when he runs, production is strong; when he doesn't, results resemble his prior two games. The Vikings offense will be fully healthy with Jefferson, Addison, and Hawkinson returning, creating uncertainty about the total picture. Upcoming schedule (Colts, Lions, Bills, Packers post-bye) offers some appeal.

Nabors recorded 20 targets in the Giants-Commanders tie, the second consecutive strong game. The source recommends holding despite the Giants' inconsistent win-loss record, as Jameis Winston's volume-dependent passing game will funnel targets to Nabors and Daniel Jones regardless of game script; even a 10-15 point reduction from his recent ceiling still yields elite production.

Mark Andrews will be hyper-targeted by Jameis Winston; the source advises not selling him unless receiving something amazing in return, as he's producing at a superstar level with a quarterback willing to challenge tight coverage and create opportunities.

The source believes Mark Andrews is in the conversation to be a top three tight end this season; even if you subtract 10-15 points from his Week 5 performance against Washington, he's still producing at an elite level with Jameis Winston as quarterback who has no fear challenging in tight spots and giving him opportunities to win.

Marshawn Lloyd had two touchdowns in the Green Bay 31, Chicago 7 game, demonstrating his scoring upside.

Lloyd scored two touchdowns in his first game without Josh Jacobs, operating in what appears to be a three-headed backfield with Pierre Strong filling Chris Brooks' snaps. At 58% rostered, he's a waiver wire priority and potential starter candidate next week against Dallas, though the Packers' inconsistent offensive line and run-game struggles suggest volatility even with Jacobs sidelined.

The Texans acquired Harrison Jr., reuniting him with CJ Stroud; the source expresses cautious optimism that this coaching staff may unlock something in him that Arizona's system did not, offering hope for dynasty roster holders.

Mason Taylor posted a 63% route participation rate, significantly higher than Kenyan Drake's 23%, suggesting he may have taken Drake off the field and is emerging as a key pass-catching option for the Saints.

The source prefers Michael Wilson over Jalen Waddell rest of season, citing that Wilson is on the right team. Despite Wilson's schedule getting hard and not performing particularly well against the Lions, the source maintains conviction in the preference, suggesting Wilson's team situation (Arizona) is more favorable than Waddell's quarterback situation with Bo Nix.

The source does not expect the Marvin Harrison Jr. acquisition to negatively impact Nico Collins; in fact, it may make him better given the Texans' pass-heavy approach and the presence of multiple receiving options.

Collins finished the game but was favoring his hip during play, per in-room reporting; injury status warrants monitoring heading forward.

When asked whether to prefer Ramondre Stevenson or Ollie Gordon rest of season, the source chose Stevenson, noting 'We're just going to continue to take a beating at the hands of Ollie Gordon,' suggesting Gordon has underperformed expectations.

Parker Washington scored 30 points in Week 5, placing him among the week's top scorers.

Parker Washington scored 30 points in Week 5, placing him among the top scorers of the week.

Source calls Parker Washington a stud after concerns about him over the last couple of weeks; he responded with a 51-yard touchdown in the first quarter and a 27-yard touchdown, described as an awesome throw and catch, getting Jacksonville back into the game.

Strong filled Chris Brooks' snaps in the Packers backfield, suggesting a three-headed committee with Marshawn Lloyd and Josh Jacobs (when healthy), limiting individual upside in a run game the source expects to remain weak even with roster improvements.

Judkins was apparently in a walking boot following Week 5, raising concerns about his availability and workload for the upcoming game against Baltimore.

Sanders left with a hip injury in Week 5, adding to the Ravens' backfield injury concerns heading into their matchup against Baltimore.

Stevenson is identified as a Week 5 winner; the source suggests he could be considered a winner even if Henderson had remained healthy, indicating his role and usage are expanding in the offense.

Ramondre Stevenson is a winner after his backfield teammate was injured; started in 48% of leagues with 4.9 yards per carry, three catches, and a touchdown; the source states he would be a winner even if his backfield mate returned; he is the passing downs back with a favorable next-seven-game schedule (Jets, Bears, Dolphins, Packers, Lions, Chargers, Bills) that includes a buy.

Ramondre Stevenson is projected as a regular starter and potential top-12 running back (possibly top-10) rest of season; he averaged 4.9 yards per carry with three catches and a touchdown in Week 5, and the source notes his favorable next-seven-game schedule (Jets, Bears, Dolphins, Packers, Lions, Chargers, Bills) combined with his dual roles as passing-downs and goal-line back, contingent on ball security.

Ramondre Stevenson started in only 48% of leagues heading into Week 5, but the source expects that ownership percentage to rise given his production and role.

Dowdle's role may be affected by Jalen Warren; source raised this as a question for discussion, indicating potential backfield competition.

The source notes that Sam LaPorta should have been included on a graphic comparing tight end performance, suggesting he had a notable Week 5 performance worthy of recognition.

Barkley's status for the upcoming game against Carolina is uncertain following Week 5; his potential return or continued absence will affect backfield workload distribution alongside Shipley and Damian Pierce.

When healthy, Barkley will be the Eagles' best player and the team's focal point; the source expects a return to a more run-heavy approach once Barkley returns from injury, reversing the pass-heavy game plan forced by his absence against Jacksonville.

Source expresses desire to see Barkley on the field and notes the Eagles' schedule will be very favorable for him going forward, suggesting strong upcoming matchup opportunities.

Stefon Diggs will be a number three receiver on a week-to-week basis for Washington; the source projects him as a consistent mid-tier receiver option given Jaden Daniels' current passing limitations and the team's overall offensive constraints.

Jaden Daniels scored 32.3 fantasy points in Week 5 with Terry McLaurin playing at less than 100% health, indicating Daniels' performance was achieved despite his top receiver being limited.

Terry McLaurin will be a number three receiver on a week-to-week basis for Washington; the source projects him as a consistent mid-tier receiver option given Jaden Daniels' current passing limitations and the team's overall offensive constraints.

Etienne got a ton of work in this game but was not efficient with it; source notes multiple times in notes 'burst with Etienne' when watching him, indicating he has the physical tools but hasn't lived up to ceiling expectations.

Source still believes Etienne will be a number two fantasy running back despite recent inefficiency; he received three targets and two catches in this game, which helped him reach double-digit PPR points.

Etienne is at 12.7 PPR fantasy points per game, trailing Chase Brown who is at 13 PPR points per game; source notes Etienne has Houston this upcoming week (tough run defense), then a bye, and if he struggles after Houston, he has favorable matchups against Dallas and Washington in weeks 16 and 17 that could be a good time to acquire him.

The source was convinced to start both Trey Harris and the Broncos defense in one league against the Chargers, and this decision worked out well; Harris had a strong performance in Denver's 23-17 win over Los Angeles.

Shipley left in the second quarter with an injury in Week 5; his status for the upcoming game against Carolina is uncertain, with potential backfield alternatives including Saquon Barkley, Damian Pierce, and others.

Marks had a lot of work in Week 5 with Montgomery sidelined by a groin injury; however, the Jaguars present a challenging matchup next week as the toughest run defense in football, which could limit his fantasy upside.

Woody Marks is a winner after his backfield teammate was injured; the source groups him with Ramondre Stevenson as a beneficiary of backfield opportunity and states he would be a winner even if the injured backfield mate returned.

Woody Marks demonstrated capability in passing downs and is expected to continue receiving check-down throws; the source notes he has shown more juice than Montgomery throughout the season, suggesting sustained involvement if Montgomery remains sidelined.

Woody Marks, who started in only 14% of leagues, showed efficiency in Week 5 with 4.1 yards per carry and four catches while serving as the lead running back with Montgomery sidelined; the source projects his floor as a bye-week running back and ceiling as a low-end number-two fantasy running back in half and full PPR, though his schedule (Jacksonville, Giants, bye, Chargers) is tougher than Ramondre Stevenson's.