McVay confirmed on Saturday that defensive tackle Aaron Donald will play in Monday Night Football’s matchup against the Buffalo Bills despite missing practice. McVay provided the encouraging update during his Saturday press conference.

“As far as injuries are concerned, Aaron was a DNP but he’s good. He’ll be good to go for the game – no status there.” Donald is set to return after missing Los Angeles’ 24-20 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4.

How Donald will return

The veteran defensive tackle has appeared in two games since returning to the NFL, recording four tackles, including one solo and three assisted, along with a tackle for a 3-yard loss. Already showing a glimpse of what he is capable of, he should be even better as he gains more rhythm.

His availability provides a boost for the Rams‘ defensive front as they prepare to face a Buffalo team that enters the matchup at 3-1. McVay also provided an update on defensive back Quentin Lake, who remains questionable for Monday’s game.

Other major news for the Rams

Aside from the news on Donald, McVay revealed that cornerback Jaylen Watson and tight end Colby Parkinson have all been cleared to play against Josh Allen and the Bills at SoFi Stadium in primetime.

Watson’s return might be the most remarkable among the players. The cornerback suffered a dislocated shoulder during the Rams’ Week 3 loss to the Denver Broncos and initially appeared destined for a lengthy absence. Instead, Watson will return after missing just one NFL regular-season game and is expected to wear a protective harness designed to restrict his shoulder’s range of motion and reduce the risk of another dislocation.

Key takeaways

• Aaron Donald will play against the Buffalo Bills despite a DNP designation.
• Four tackles were recorded by Donald in two games since returning to action.
• Jaylen Watson and Colby Parkinson were cleared to play for Los Angeles.

Given that players like Adonai Mitchell and Omar Cooper Jr. are injured, having Patrick back is a very good boost for the Jets, who need a bounceback performance against the Browns in Week 5. After all, the Jets just had 32 offensive plays last week vs. Chicago.

Of course, Patrick won’t be the WR1 for the game, as the Jets have a certified star in Garrett Wilson. He will command the majority of the targets, but Patrick is a solid option for the second progression.

Jets WR depth chart vs Browns in Week 5

Most of the top-tier wideouts are banged up and unavailable for this game. Still, the Jets will try to halt the Browns momentum. Cleveland is coming to this game with a three-game winning streak. The Jets are yet to win since Week 1. This is their WR depth chart vs Browns:

• Garrett Wilson
• Tim Patrick
• Isaiah Williams
• Malik McClain

The Jets offense has to get into rhythm

When the script works, the Jets are able to move the chains and create some chaos. However, they must be able to get into rhythm for that to happen. The Jets have Geno Smith as quarterback, who is capable of playing at a decent-to-high level.

However, the run game must help him establish the play-action, and that is something that offensive coordinator Frank Reich must try to achieve from early in the game. If not, this turns into a monotonic offense.

Key takeaways

• Tim Patrick will make his season debut for the Jets against the Cleveland Browns.
• The Jets offense managed just 32 plays last week against the Chicago Bears.
• Garrett Wilson remains the primary WR1 for Geno Smith in the Jets’ passing game

Hollins is suffering from a calf injury. Now, he joins AJ Brown as the wideouts placed on IR. However, Brown is close to returning. Still, he won’t be featured against the Raiders.

Brown, who is on IR after suffering a high-ankle sprain in Week 1, could return in Week 6. Still, for Week 5 where the Patriots face off against the Las Vegas Raiders, New England will be short of two of their best wideouts.

Patriots WR depth chart vs Raiders in Week 5

The Patriots will have to deal with third-stringers and lesser receivers as they hope to get a second win in a row and gain some momentum. The Raiders actually beat the Patriots last season, so it’s also revenge time. This is their WR depth chart for the game:

• Romeo Doubs (Starting X-Receiver)
• Efton Chism III (Expected starter at the Z-Receiver role in place of Hollins)
• DeMario Douglas (Starting Slot Receiver)
• Kyle Williams (Backup / Rotational Receive)

The Patriots have a hidden gem at WR

The New England Patriots have an underutilized yet talented wideout in Efton Chism III. Chism became a cult hero last week by making an outstanding game-winning touchdown grab.

Chism is one of those wideouts that usually thrive under offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. He is a small, route-prolific receiver. He has already drawn comparisons to Patriots’ greats Wes Welker, Danny Amendola, and Julian Edelman.

Key takeaways

• Mack Hollins was placed on IR due to a calf injury, ruling him out for at least four games.
• A.J. Brown remains sidelined on IR with a high-ankle sprain but could return in Week 6.
• Efton Chism III will start at Z-receiver against Las Vegas after catching a game-winning touchdown.

Beckham has quickly learned Minnesota’s offense and established chemistry with quarterback Kyler Murray after signing with the Vikings earlier this week, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. “Sources say Odell Beckham Jr. has quickly picked up the #Vikings’ offense and has developed a good connection with Kyler Murray as well. It’s a pretty cool homecoming for OBJ, who grew up in New Orleans.”

Beckham joined Minnesota on Wednesday following his surprise release from the New York Giants last Tuesday. His quick turnaround gives him an opportunity to make an impact only days after joining a Vikings team that has opened the season with four consecutive victories.

Beckham’s debut with the Vikings

The matchup also carries additional significance for Beckham. The veteran receiver grew up in New Orleans before starring at LSU and beginning an NFL career that has included stops with several teams, making this a significant return.

While Beckham‘s role in his Vikings debut remains to be seen, his early connection with Murray could allow Minnesota to incorporate him into the offense sooner than expected. The 33-year-old gives the Vikings another experienced option in their receiving corps as they attempt to remain unbeaten.

The confidence behind Beckham comes with clear reasons. Beckham largely dominated the NFL during his first stint with the Giants (2014-2018). He made three Pro Bowls and two All-Pro Second Teams and posted 1,000+ yards in every season except 2017, which ended early due to a fractured left ankle.

The Vikings (4-0) will look to extend their hot start when visiting New Orleans (1-3) in Week 5. Beckham could make his Vikings debut in his hometown as Minnesota seeks its fifth consecutive victory to open the 2026 season.

Key takeaways

• Odell Beckham Jr. was elevated from the practice squad by the Minnesota Vikings.
• Kyler Murray established quick chemistry with Odell Beckham Jr. in Minnesota.
• Week 5 features Minnesota (4-0) visiting New Orleans (1-3) for Beckham’s potential debut.

Purdy is yet to receive a sack this season and that has obviously helped his case, but his prowess alone is also absolutely a reason for the 49ers being one of three unbeaten teams ahead of Week 5.

Now, both Purdy and Allen have a +300 line to become the 2026 NFL Most Valuable Player. Allen is, once again, playing hero ball to get the Bills wins, but Purdy might be playing the best football in his career.

Purdy’s stats throughout the first four weeks of the 2026 NFL season

Purdy has the best passer rating in the NFL with an otherworldly 126.3. Throughout this stretch, Purdy has passed for at least two or more touchdowns in all four of his games.

Purdy is currently riding a three-game streak with no turnovers as well. Pure and elite football level in all facets of the game. Josh Allen has to do so for his team to win, Purdy is just enjoying himself on the field and winning while he’s at it.

Purdy is defying the AFC QBs for MVP

Purdy is the only NFC quarterback in the top 6 favored to win MVP. That speaks volumes of what he is doing for the 49ers. After all, the AFC is known for their elite QBs. This is the top 6:

• Brock Purdy +300
• ⁠Josh Allen +300
• ⁠Patrick Mahomes +600
• ⁠Lamar Jackson +800
• ⁠Trevor Lawrence +1000
• ⁠Joe Burrow +1400

Key takeaways

• Brock Purdy holds +300 MVP odds, tying Josh Allen as co-favorite entering Week 5.
• Purdy leads the league with a 126.3 passer rating and zero sacks taken.
• Brock Purdy stands as the only NFC quarterback among the top six MVP betting candidates.

The decision comes as Minnesota deals with uncertainty surrounding its top two wide receivers. Justin Jefferson is listed as questionable with an ankle injury, while Jordan Addison carries the same designation because of a hamstring issue. With both players potentially unavailable, the Vikings are preparing for different scenarios as they look to maintain their offensive production.

NFL insider Tom Pelissero reported the move, explaining that Beckham’s elevation provides additional insurance for Minnesota’s receiving corps. The former New York Giants star recently joined the Vikings after being released by his previous team, and his familiarity with head coach Kevin O’Connell from their time with the Los Angeles Rams could help him adapt quickly if called upon.

Will Odell Beckham Jr. play for Vikings vs Saints?

Pelissero confirmed that Minnesota has elevated Beckham to its active roster for Sunday’s game, but he emphasized that the receiver’s participation has not yet been determined. The move gives the Vikings another option at wide receiver while they wait for clarity on Jefferson and Addison, both of whom remain questionable on the final injury report.

“The Vikings are elevating WR Odell Beckham Jr. from the practice squad for Sunday’s game at New Orleans, per sources. Still TBD if OBJ will play. But the move provides insurance with both Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison listed as questionable.”

Beckham’s potential role will depend largely on the availability of Minnesota’s leading receivers. Jefferson missed the Vikings’ previous game while recovering from his ankle injury, and Addison has also been managing his hamstring problem. If either player cannot suit up, Beckham could provide valuable depth for quarterback Kyler Murray, who would benefit from having another experienced target available against New Orleans.

The move also represents another opportunity for Beckham to revive his NFL career after a brief and unproductive return to the Giants. He recorded no catches on one target across three games with New York before his release, but his experience and previous connection with O’Connell offer Minnesota a low-risk option. Whether Beckham makes his Vikings debut on Sunday remains to be seen, but the team has taken the necessary step to make him available if needed.

Key takeaways

• The Vikings elevated Odell Beckham Jr. from the practice squad before playing New Orleans.
• Receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison are both questionable with injuries.
• Beckham recorded zero catches on one target across three games with the Giants.

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles have been dealing with their own challenges ahead of their Week 5 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. Injuries to key offensive players, including Saquon Barkley and DeVonta Smith, have complicated Philadelphia’s preparations, creating more uncertainty around the defending division contenders. With the season still in its early stages, the latest developments could have implications for the NFC East standings.

In this scenario, Harbaugh was asked how much attention his team pays to what happens elsewhere in the division, particularly after the Cowboys’ defeat and the Eagles’ recent struggles. While acknowledging that players and coaches keep track of their rivals, the head coach emphasized that the Giants cannot afford to lose focus on their own upcoming opponent, the Washington Commanders.

Who will win the NFC East?

John Harbaugh explained that developments around the division naturally become a topic of conversation among coaches and players, especially after a high-profile game like Dallas’ loss to Tampa Bay. However, he made a distinction between keeping up with the competition and allowing outside results to distract the team from its weekly preparation.

“Yeah, I think you take notice. It’s talked about, probably not too specifically. It’s more like you talk about it probably at work with your colleagues and friends and stuff. ‘You see the game last night?’ You kind of keep track a little bit of the division, certainly more than the other teams that you’re playing against. So, we certainly know what happened in the game. I didn’t stay up for it. It was too late. But I saw the highlights in the morning, and guys were talking about it. Joe Schoen gave me the rundown. He stayed up and watched it, so he gave me the details.”

The Giants coach then made clear where the team’s priorities lie as it prepares for its next game. Although the Cowboys’ loss and the Eagles’ situation are relevant to the broader division race, Harbaugh stressed that the Commanders deserve the majority of New York’s attention this week. “The Commanders are the ones we’re kind of focusing on this week. So, you spend more time on the game that you’re playing.”

Key takeaways

• The Dallas Cowboys lost 24-16 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday night.
• Philadelphia Eagles players Saquon Barkley and DeVonta Smith are dealing with injuries.
• Giants coach John Harbaugh emphasized focusing on their upcoming opponent, the Washington Commanders.

According to Jordan Raanan of ESPN, “Most of the league projected Reese as an outside linebacker coming out of Ohio State, but the Giants saw him as an inside linebacker.” Reese told ESPN this week that he recalls only two teams telling him he would be an inside linebacker at the NFL level: the Giants and Minnesota Vikings.

“Everyone else pretty much said ‘he’s an edge guy,” Reese said. Hence, this was a next-level read for the Giants, who have a potential Defensive Rookie of the Year in their hands. To be fair with the rest of the franchises, Reese did say at the NFL scouting combine that he was an oustide linebacker/edge.

Where did Reese play for Ohio State in CFB?

Reese played 238 snaps as an inside linebacker, and 356 as an outside linebacker in his final year with the Buckeyes. So, he wasn’t really lying. However, it’s still plenty of snaps played at ILB. The Giants received positive feedback on Reese for his performance.

For Giants head coach John Harbaugh, it’s easy, “I would answer it this way — that’s what he played. So, it was easy. You watched him on tape and he played it really well… but he played it really well at Ohio State against the best teams in the country in a pretty complicated defensive system that they have over there. So, yeah, it was, to me, the evidence was right there,” he said.

Reese is a clear-cut game-changer for the NY Giants

Reese has absolutely transformed the New York Giants defense and emerged as a frontrunner for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. Selected No. 5 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, he has quickly silenced critics who questioned the Giants’ decision to play him as an off-ball, inside linebacker rather than a pure edge rusher.

Oh and by the way, according to Reese, this isn’t even close to his best level. In fact, he labeled his Week 4 breakout performance as just “decent.” Therefore the Giants must be ecstatic to see what “good” or “great” looks like for Reese.

Key takeaways

• Arvell Reese posted nine solo tackles and his first career interception in Week 4.
• Only the Giants and Vikings projected Reese as an inside linebacker during pre-draft evaluations.
• Head coach John Harbaugh praised Reese’s film against top collegiate programs at Ohio State.

The incident happened as Prescott walked toward the locker room following the defeat. Video of the moment showed the Cowboys quarterback turning toward the man after hearing the remark, then responding when the individual appeared to make another comment. The confrontation quickly went viral, adding another talking point to an already difficult night for Dallas.

Prescott addressed the situation after the game, explaining that his frustration was not simply about being criticized. Instead, the veteran quarterback took issue with the man looking away after Dak turned toward him, before speaking again. The QB made clear that he believes people should be willing to stand behind their words, even when those comments provoke a reaction.

What did Dak Prescott say about the heated exchange with an employee?

Dak Prescott explained that he had no problem with someone expressing an opinion about the Cowboys’ performance, even if that opinion was harsh. What bothered him was the way the interaction unfolded after he looked at the person who made the comment.

The quarterback said he expected the man to stand by what he had said rather than avoid eye contact and continue speaking once Prescott turned away. “When he said it, I just happened to look at him, and at that point, he looked away. And when I turned my head back, he said something else. That’s the part that, just as a man or as just a person, feel free to speak your mind, just speak it. Don’t cower away from the reaction that you’re going to get.”

The exchange came after a loss that dropped Dallas to 2-3 and intensified scrutiny of the team’s performance. Prescott completed 24 of 42 passes for 316 yards and a touchdown, but he also threw two interceptions in a game the Cowboys were expected to win.

Although he expressed frustration with the tunnel incident, Prescott also acknowledged the Buccaneers’ performance, making clear that the defeat was about more than one controversial comment.

“If you’re saying it’s embarrassing, say it’s embarrassing. If you’re saying it to me, then say it to me. Don’t go back on it. So, that’s all that was, and hate that it’s even being talked about, to be honest with you.”

Key takeaways

• Dak Prescott confronted a worker after the Cowboys’ 24-16 loss to Tampa Bay.
• Prescott urged the stadium employee to “not cower away” after calling the performance embarrassing.
• Prescott completed 24 of 42 passes with one touchdown and two interceptions vs Bucs.

Jones was asked whether a player could be worth sacrificing future draft capital at this stage of the season. His response suggested that the Cowboys would consider giving up picks if the right opportunity emerged, particularly for a player who could contribute beyond the remainder of the 2026 campaign. Dallas has already shown that it is willing to make aggressive moves, having acquired cornerback Joey Porter Jr. from the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The latest comments come at a difficult moment for the Cowboys, who dropped to 2-3 after losing at home to a Buccaneers team that entered the game without a win. Tampa Bay’s offense produced 419 total yards, including 241 on the ground, exposing the defensive issues that have plagued Dallas early in the season. Rather than signaling a retreat, Jones indicated that the organization is still looking for ways to improve the roster.

Will Cowboys make a trade?

It’s possible. When asked whether he believed one player was worth giving up draft capital for, Jerry Jones made his position clear while emphasizing that Dallas would not pursue just any available veteran.

“Yes (make a trade). I wouldn’t give up future capital for a player who didn’t have some future or potential future that you could add years to. But yeah, I would. The future capital that you have are draft picks and those guys have question marks with them too. So, if we do see an opportunity and it fits for us, we’ll take a good look at it. This isn’t fold the tents here.”

Jones’ comments suggest that age, long-term value and the possibility of keeping a player beyond this season would factor into any potential deal. The Cowboys are not simply looking for a short-term solution; they want an acquisition who could help address their immediate weaknesses while remaining a valuable part of the roster in the years ahead.

The defense is an obvious area to watch after its performance against Tampa Bay, particularly with Dallas struggling to stop the run and consistently get off the field. However, Jones did not identify a specific trade target or guarantee that another deal would happen.

The Cowboys remain at 2-3, and their next matchup against the Green Bay Packers on October 18 will provide another test. For now, Jones has left the door open: if the right player becomes available at a price Dallas considers worthwhile, the team is prepared to take a serious look.

“I feel good,” Donald said during his press conference. “I feel a lot better than what I was.” Clearly, this is not good news for Allen, as No. 99 looks to regain the form that once made him the best player at his position.

Through the first four weeks, the Bills’ quarterback has been sacked nine times, resulting in a loss of 50 yards. Heading into a crucial matchup against the Rams, those negative numbers could climb even higher.

Donald wants to return to his former glory

Aaron Donald’s return from retirement with the Rams has been a bit of a gradual grind so far in this 2026 NFL season. After sitting out Week 1 while ramping up, he made his season debut in Week 2 and has racked up 4 total tackles (1 solo, 3 assisted) and 1 tackle for loss through two games before missing Week 4 due to back soreness.

While he hasn’t registered a sack yet and is still fighting through minor physical bumps, the 10-time Pro Bowler is working to shake off the rust, get back into game shape, and regain that dominant, game-disrupting form that defined his legendary career.

Stopping Allen will be the key

Stopping Josh Allen is hands-down the ultimate key for the Rams if they want to secure a huge victory on Monday Night Football. Allen has been putting up absolute video-game numbers so far this 2026 season—racking up 1,039 passing yards with 6 passing touchdowns through 4 games, while staying lethal on the ground with 118 rushing yards and 5 rushing touchdowns.

He’s the engine that powers Buffalo’s entire offense, meaning L.A.’s defense will need to generate relentless pressure, keep him contained inside the pocket, and force him into bad decisions; if the Rams can neutralize his dual-threat magic and limit his explosive plays, they’ll be in prime position to steal a massive win.

Key takeaways

• Aaron Donald declared he feels good ahead of the Rams’ matchup against Buffalo.
• Josh Allen has been sacked nine times through the first four weeks.
• Aaron Donald has recorded 4 total tackles through two games played in 2026.