Game Preview

The Washington Commanders head to SoFi Stadium on Sunday to take on the Los Angeles Chargers in this critical Week 5 clash, with playoff implications looming early in the season. The Commanders enter at 2-2 and seek a bounce-back after a rough road loss, while the Chargers, sitting at 3-1, aim to rebound at home following a surprising defeat in New York. With both teams boasting high-octane offenses led by dynamic young quarterbacks, fans can expect an electric showdown in Los Angeles.

Current Injury and Practice Reports

Washington Commanders Injury Report

  • WR Terry McLaurin (quadriceps): OUT, missing his second consecutive game.

  • WR Noah Brown (groin/knee): OUT, missing third consecutive game.

  • RT Sam Cosmi (ACL recovery): Not activated from IR; practice window opened, not playing this week.

  • TE John Bates (groin/calf): Full practice, likely to return after missing two games.

  • S Percy Butler (hip): Limited in practice, status uncertain.

  • S Ale Kaho (concussion): Limited in practice, remains in protocol.

  • DT Daron Payne (knee): Limited practice, listed as questionable.

  • QB Jayden Daniels (knee): Full Participation – Daniels returns to full practice, set to make his first start since injury.

Los Angeles Chargers Injury Report

Recent practices have seen several starters limited or missing:

  • OG Mekhi Becton (concussion): Limited in practice, officially questionable for Sunday.

  • WR Derius Davis (knee): OUT, did not participate in practice.

  • OT Joe Alt (ankle): OUT, did not participate in practice.

  • TE Will Dissly (knee): Limited in practice, questionable for Sunday.

  • S Derwin James Jr. (glute): Limited participation, officially questionable.

  • CB Tarheeb Still (ankle): Limited participation, questionable.

  • WR Keenan Allen: DNP but listed as rest/non-injury related and likely available.

Impact of Injuries

Commanders

Missing Terry McLaurin heavily restricts Washington’s vertical game and red-zone efficiency, forcing QB Jayden Daniels to depend more on secondary receiving options and the run game. Noah Brown’s continued absence further depletes depth, complicating playcalling for Kliff Kingsbury, who will likely lean on Zach Ertz and Deebo Samuel. Daniels' return from injury should spark Washington’s offense, but chemistry and rhythm may lag without his top weapons.

Chargers

Justin Herbert faces increased pressure behind a battered offensive line after evident struggles against the Giants after Joe Alt's injury. The loss of Khalil Mack weakens the Chargers’ pass rush and run defense, while Will Dissly's questionable status impacts tight end production and red-zone packages. Defensive depth issues - especially at linebacker and corner - could allow the Commanders to exploit mismatches if Daniels can regain his form quickly.

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