Per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, Keenan Allen is expected to play in Week 5 vs Steelers after overcoming a groin injury. Allen missed Week 4 and was tagged as questionable for this game.

With Allen ready to go, the Colts will have a boost on offense. Given that Alec Pierce is still sidelined, all wideouts must step up to help quarterback Daniel Jones move the chains. Allen is notoriously a QB-friendly receiver.

Colts WR depth chart vs Steelers

With a big game in place, the Colts will rely on veterans to fill their depth chart. The fact of the matter is that this WR room, as it stands for the game vs Steelers, is not precisely stacked. However, Shane Steichen is a very good playcaller, and could draw some plays to still thrive. This is the full WR depth chart:

• Josh Downs
• Keenan Allen
• Laquon Treadwell
• Darius Slayton
• Anthony Gould
• Ashton Dulin
• Deion Burks

The Colts should rely heavily on TE Tyler Warren

Given that the team is dealing with plenty of injuries, the Colts should target Tyler Warren heavily. Warren is one of the best tight ends in the NFL, and he can handle full volume if needed.

Warren has 23 catches this season, grabbing all but four targets. He also has scored twice. Hence, he should be poised for a big-time role today against the Steelers, who are a tough defense.

Key takeaways

• Keenan Allen expected to return in Week 5 after overcoming a groin injury.
• Josh Downs and Keenan Allen lead Indianapolis’ wide receiver depth chart against Pittsburgh.
• Tyler Warren caught 23 passes for two touchdowns through four games this season.

According to information released by the NFL’s official website, a groin injury is the main reason Allen will not be alongside his teammates. Undoubtedly, this is a significant loss for Daniel Jones’ passing attack.

For the Commanders, McLaurin’s presence has also been ruled out. A hamstring injury he recently suffered during last week’s practice ultimately sidelines him for this important game.

Keenan Allen’s numbers so far this season

Keenan Allen’s start with Indianapolis in this 2026 NFL season has been pretty modest so far, pulling in 13 receptions for 100 receiving yards and a single touchdown across his first three games before going down. Now, with Allen sidelined on injured reserve, the Colts find themselves shuffling their target hierarchy big time: Laquon Treadwell and Josh Downs are set to step up as the primary WR1 options to keep the aerial attack moving.

McLaurin’s impact on the Commanders

Terry McLaurin‘s early 2026 run with the Commanders has been steady if a bit quiet, hauling in 10 catches for 141 receiving yards and a touchdown across his first three games. While those numbers might not jump off the stat sheet just yet, Scary Terry remains the focal point and undisputed leader of Washington’s passing game.

His ability to stretch the field with a solid 14.1 yards per catch keeps opposing defenses honest, opening up crucial space underneath for the rest of the offense and giving the Commanders a reliable big-play threat whenever they need a spark.

Key takeaways

• Keenan Allen is out due to a groin injury after recording 13 receptions.
• Terry McLaurin is also out for kickoff because of a hamstring injury.
• Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London hosts the 2026 NFL game between Indianapolis and Washington.

During an appearance on the Up & Adams show, Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz revealed that the organization hasn’t shut the door on a reunion with Allen. Hortiz confirmed that the front office has remained in communication with the wide receiver’s representation to gauge the feasibility of bringing the franchise legend back to Southern California.

As things stand, Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, and Tre’ Harris project as the primary targets in the Chargers’ passing game. Should Allen return, the 34-year-old veteran would offer an incredibly dependable presence to the rotation, allowing the Chargers to be ‘destructive,’ as David Njoku says.

Keenan Allen delivered a productive 2025 campaign in Los Angeles

Of the 13 seasons Allen has spent in the NFL, 12 have been in a Chargers uniform. Aside from a brief one-year stint with the Chicago Bears in 2024, the veteran playmaker has been synonymous with the franchise, establishing himself as one of the most prolific pass-catchers in team history.

Allen reunited with Los Angeles late last summer and, while the offense features multiple ascending talents, he still put up very respectable numbers. The veteran hauled in 81 receptions for 777 yards and four touchdowns, demonstrating a level of consistency that has kept the front office highly interested in a 2026 encore.

While the Chargers are deeply committed to building a younger, more explosive roster under Mike McDaniel’s offensive direction, Allen’s value transcends his on-field production. His extensive experience makes him an ideal mentor for the team’s developing corps, all while remaining a trusted safety valve for Herbert in critical situations.

What could a potential new contract look like for Keenan Allen?

Last August, Allen signed a late one-year deal worth $3.02 million to return to the Chargers for the 2025 season. With the wideout hitting free agency once again this spring, his next contract structure could look slightly different as both sides weigh his role and market value.

Market projections suggest Allen could command a short-term deal worth around $6 million for the 2026 season. Ultimately, any potential deal hinges on mutual valuation, as the Chargers boast plenty of salary cap flexibility but may look to strike a team-friendly agreement that reflects his changing role in a revamped offense.

Hortiz also said Quentin Johnston is not being shopped around. Hence, it seems like they would want to keep the roster intact, and maybe add one or two pieces via draft. Justin Herbert has had plenty of setbacks, but the Chargers want to make sure depth in wideouts is not one of them.

Keenan Allen had 81 catches for 777 yards and four touchdowns. He was the second-leading WR on the team, just 12 yards below Ladd McConkey. Even at 33 years old, he is still delivering the goods.

Ladd McConkey is still the WR1 of the team

McConkey has two years in the NFL and he has plenty of production for such a young career. He has 1,938 yards on 148 receptions and 13 touchdowns. McConkey has those numbers despite suffering a sophomore slump.

The fact is he should be even better this year. The Chargers hired Mike McDaniel as their offensive coordinator and his scheme could make McConkey one of the most productive wideouts in the NFL. It will be a sight to see.

The Chargers have lots of pressure on them

Since getting Justin Herbert, this team has had plenty of expectations. First, it was Anthony Lynn and then Brandon Staley. Hence, the team hired a top-tier head coach like Jim Harbaugh. Then, injuries hampered them, mainly in the offensive line.

Now, they have the O-line, the coach, a star coordinator, and are working on giving Herbert the best weapons they can. With the NFL Draft coming, the Chargers have a plethora of options to strengthen the roster.

Veteran leadership, star power and locker-room identity all hang in the balance. Several cornerstone players are nearing the end of their deals, turning long-term planning into an urgent front-office exercise.

What comes next could redefine the team’s direction. Decisions made in the months ahead may signal whether L.A. is doubling down on its core or preparing for a new NFL competitive cycle.

Los Angeles Chargers free agents in 2026

Los Angeles enters the 2026 offseason with a long list of players eligible to hit the open market, and positioning for the future looms large in every front-office discussion. Several notable names — including running back Najee Harris, receiver Keenan Allen and edge rusher Khalil Mack — are listed among the unrestricted free agents who could test free agency this March.

Contract expirations are a natural pressure point in the NFL calendar, especially for teams trying to stay competitive year over year. As deals run out, the team must weigh continuity against flexibility, balancing performance, age and financial impact within a tightly managed salary cap.

For the franchise, these moments often define more than a single season. Allowing contracts to expire can open space for reinvention, while renewals can signal commitment to a specific core. Either path carries consequences that extend well beyond the offseason.

Keenan Allen surpassed Antonio Gates as the player with most receptions in Chargers’ history with 956. Not only that, reports say that Allen was the one who suggested the play that made him reach the milestone.

Before the game, he needed two catches to pass Antonio Gates. With less than three minutes to play, he had one and the game was all but sealed in favor of the Chargers. Allen revealed he went to head coach Jim Harbaugh and said “run the speed sweep… guaranteed catch.” Harbaugh obliged and it was a success that ended up with Allen breaking the record and winning eight additional yards as well.

Allen is still pursuing Gates

Gates still has the receiving yards and receiving touchdowns records. One of them is pretty much impossible to reach, as there is a 53-touchdown gap between Gates and Allen. However, as for the receiving yards, Allen needs 773 yards which he could break in the following season if he remains on the team.

While football is played to win Super Bowls, having these accolades mean a lot to players. It’s an indictment on their dedication. As Allen himself said to Kris Rhim of ESPN, “Those are milestones that not a lot of people reach, even the greats.”

Keenan Allen has been losing snaps lately

However, there is something concerning with Allen. In Week 8, he played only 25% of the snaps. In Week 9, he played just 37% of the snaps. Against the Steelers, he played 51% but just got five targets. Even with the chemistry he has with Justin Herbert, the snap share is not helping him.

The rise of WR Quentin Johnston and TE Oronde Gadsden have taken plenty of opportunities out of Allen’s hand. Also, they all play second fiddle to WR Ladd McConkey, who is the clear-cut WR1 of the team. Hence, if Allen wants to get those 773 yards, he must make the most out of every single target he has.

On Thursday Night Football, the Chargers will face a tough challenge against the Vikings. However, this game carries special meaning for Keenan Allen beyond just chasing a win.

The wideout is only eight receptions away from breaking the Chargers’ all-time record for catches. He currently has 948, while Antonio Gates tops the list with 955.

Could Keenan Allen break the Chargers’ receiving record vs. Vikings?

Stats are currently not on Allen’s side for breaking the record. The wide receiver averages 6.3 receptions per game this year, short of the eight he needs to surpass Gates.

Nevertheless, his latest game suggests he could do it in Week 8. Last weekend, the Chargers faced the Colts, one of the league’s best defenses, and Allen managed 11 receptions in that matchup.

The Vikings have not been elite this year, struggling on both sides of the ball. If Justin Herbert is precise, he could help Allen break Gates’ record and become the player with the most receptions in Chargers history.

Even if he doesn’t achieve it against the Vikings, as long as he stays healthy, there’s no doubt Allen will break the record this season. The Chargers face the Titans next, and a strong performance against Minnesota could help him secure the record in that game.

Chargers’ 2025 playoff chances

According to oddsmakers, after seven weeks, the Chargers have a 50.4% chance of making the playoffs. Their odds have dropped recently due to the rise of both the Broncos and the Chiefs.

Currently, the Chargers hold the 6th seed in the AFC, meaning they would face the Broncos (3rd seed) in Denver. Nevertheless, there’s still plenty of regular season left, and playoff positions are likely to shift before the end of the year.

One of the keys to making that happen could be the potential return of a familiar face on offense. Keenan Allen was spotted at the team facility over the weekend and, although no deal was reached, head coach Jim Harbaugh did not rule out the possibility of a reunion.

In a recent conversation with the media, the veteran head coach addressed the situation involving his team and the former Bears wideout, hinting that the Chargers’ interest in adding one of the most sought-after free agents remains very much alive.

“Dating back from when I first took the job, competitors welcome at the Los Angeles Chargers, and the interest has always been there with Keenan,” Harbaugh said, via Daniel Popper of TheAthletic.com.

It’s worth noting that Allen entered the NFL after being drafted by the then-San Diego Chargers in 2013 with the 76th overall pick in the third round. He remained with the franchise until 2023 and was selected to the Pro Bowl six times during his tenure.

Is a Keenan Allen return to L.A. in the cards?

A reunion between Keenan Allen and the Los Angeles Chargers seems highly probable, with both sides expressing mutual interest. After a one-season stint with the Chicago Bears, the veteran wide receiver is a free agent and recently visited the Chargers, who have a clear need for a proven playmaker following Mike Williams’ retirement.

While other teams have shown some interest in Allen, the Chargers are the clear frontrunner to sign him, but no deal has been officially signed, leaving his final destination for the upcoming season unconfirmed.

Taking control of the AFC West

This season, the Chargers have one clear goal: to become the new kings of the AFC West. Under the leadership of coach Jim Harbaugh, they aim to finally unseat the Kansas City Chiefs, who have dominated the division for nearly a decade. With a renewed focus on a physical, run-first offense and a tough-minded defense, the Chargers are determined to prove they have what it takes to be a legitimate contender.

For Harbaugh’s team, success in this division means more than just topping the standings. It’s about building a winning culture that can compete with the best. With the Denver Broncos and Raiders also looking to improve, the division is more competitive than ever, but the QB and his team believe they have the right players and system to rise to the occasion and make a deep playoff run.

The Los Angeles Chargers are a team with high expectations, but one part of the roster is sort of incomplete, and they are looking to strengthen it. The team has an elite quarterback in Justin Herbert but even he will be limited if the weapons around him are not great. Hence, Jim Harbaugh and company have expressed the desire to reunite their quarterback with a familiar face.

Free agent wide receiver Keenan Allen is scheduled to visit the Chargers. This was reported by both Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. Allen played 11 seasons for the team before 2024, where he played for the Chicago Bears.

Allen is a veteran, but the 33-year-old is still a valuable assett. First of all, he is coming off a 70-catch, 744 yard-season, which also includes seven touchdowns in one of the NFL‘s worst offenses last year. Also, he knows Justin Herbert very well.

Allen was a menace with Herbert throwing him the ball

Justin Herbert is one of the best passers in the NFL and Keenan Allen knows it. They played together from 2020 to 2024 and Allen was as good as any receiver in the league. He posted an average of 95 catches, 1,031 yards and 6.3 touchdowns per season on 70% catch rate. Herbert had a 96.7 passer rate when throwing Allen’s way, who, by the way, made three Pro Bowls in four years with the quarterback.

Allen hasn’t played on Harbaugh‘s scheme but a player with his ability to create separation, his elite route running and safe hands will always have a place for Harbaugh. If they end up reuniting, Allen will surely boost this team’s options to go for all the marbles this season.

Allen’s role will be different

Keenan Allen was always the best receiver on the Chargers during his 11-year run. However, if he comes back, that won’t be the case. Allen would be the second option behind sophomore Ladd McConkey, who was an absolute stud during his rookie season.

However, Allen will probably start ahead of rookie Tre Harris. Also, Harbaugh could use a three-wideout formation, but that’s not that common for him. What could separate Allen from Harris is his chemistry with Herbert. The QB formed a massive connection with McConkey, but he had a special bond on the field with Allen as well. As for Harris, they still need to develop that QB-WR chemistry.

Keenan Allen, the veteran wide receiver who most recently played in the NFC North with the Chicago Bears, is among the potential additions being considered by Mike McDaniel’s Dolphins for the upcoming season.

The longtime Chargers standout and six-time Pro Bowler is one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason. With his future still up in the air, many believe that a move to South Beach would be an ideal scenario for both sides.

“Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle give the Dolphins two excellent outside receivers, but there are questions about the slot. Right now, Miami’s top slot options are the Washington “not-brothers,” two low-round draft picks from a year ago. In 2024, Malik Washington had just 26 catches for 223 yards with no touchdowns, while Tahj Washington missed his entire rookie season with an undisclosed injury. That makes Miami the perfect landing spot for a seasoned veteran slot receiver like Allen,” ESPN’s Aaron Schatz reported.

He also added: “Allen is 33 but still had 70 catches for 744 yards and seven touchdowns in Chicago a season ago. He did poorly in ESPN’s receiver tracking metrics last season but still got open, as indicated by his 57 open score. Hill and Waddle would give Allen a ton of room to work with underneath, giving quarterback Tua Tagovailoa a nice security blanket.“

Tua’s top weapons

Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill are absolutely vital to Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins’ offense. Their incredible speed and ability to get open stretch defenses, creating easy throws and big plays for the QB.

Their presence makes Tua’s job much easier. They are the engine of Miami’s high-powered attack, turning quick passes into huge gains and allowing the Dolphins to be one of the most explosive offenses in the league.

The drastic changes to the Dolphins’ roster

The Miami Dolphins have certainly seen a significant shake-up in their roster heading into the 2025 NFL season, with notable departures and key additions. Among the most impactful losses, safety Jevon Holland has made his way to the New York Giants, leaving a considerable void in the Dolphins’ secondary.

Adding more changes, the Dolphins also traded away veteran cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers. These moves signal a shift in defensive and offensive strategy and player personnel for Miami, as they look to retool both sides of the ball.

However, it’s not all departures for the Dolphins. The team has made some promising acquisitions, including the drafting of quarterback Quinn Ewers, a high-potential signal-caller. They’ve also bolstered their offensive line with the signing of guard James Daniels and added depth to the backfield by bringing in running back Alexander Mattison, aiming to improve their ground game and protect their new quarterback.

Allen arrives in Chicago into a WR room that could shape up to be the league’s best receiving core. Along with DJ Moore and rookie Rome Odunze, the Bears have set an exciting group to assist Caleb Williams first professional year. Williams embarks on his NFL journey as the first overall pick and the clear-cut top prospect in his class. Meanwhile, Herbert had been drafted 6th overall (not too shabby, though) and was the 3rd QB taken, with many skeptic about his selection.

Despite being drafted just five picks apart, Keenan Allen believes the difference between both young QBs mentality heading into their rookie years is immeasurable.

“The confidence. When we first had Herbert, he wasn’t really a starter going into Week 1, so that’s a difference,” Allen stated, via NBC Sports Chicago. “He [Williams] has always been the guy, so he’s always had the expectation of playing at that level that we play at. He’s ready for it. He’s up for the task. His confidence is good.”

Allen’s statements are not intended as jabs to Herbert, indeed the Oregon product had an OROY season in 2020. Allen is just stating the intangibles to what goes in team’s practice and how Williams has played with a veteran-like confidence since landing at Chicago.

Bears look primed to succeed

The sun seems to be out in ‘Windy City’, gone seem the painful days. Chicago may have finally found their ‘guy’ at the most important position in the NFL. After years of failure at developing young QBs, Caleb Williams may have the potion to make everybody forget. The confidence is definitely visible on himself, but also can be seen from his coaches and teammates.

“I wouldn’t rather be with another guy right now than Caleb,” Allen noted. “He’s gotten better ever since we started. The confidence is through the roof.”

Chicago has entered the conversation. The NFC North title does not seem as far-fetched with Caleb as it did in previous years when no QB1 was truly seen as a QB1 in the Bears organization. The team’s trust on their rookie signal-caller translates to Williams’ naming as team captain.

The ‘Caleb Williams’ show premiere

Soldier Field will be the venue for Caleb Williams’ NFL debut on Saturday’s noon when the Chicago Bears take on the Tennesseee Titans. Will Levis has been named the team’s starter and will look to cement his place as QB1, or else the Titans may favour their sights on the 2025 NFL Draft class.

The Bears are ready to show the league they are for real. With an explossive offense that just added great weapons to join Cole Kmet and Moore’s presence.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Bears have an established group. Their defense features one of the best DBs in the league Jaylon Johnson, great safeties in Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker, and new additions, Montez Sweat and Terrell Edmunds.

Matt Eberflus will head into the 2024 season with high stakes, which only indicate the team is heading in the right direction. The leash won’t be too long for Eberflus whose roster is one many coaches in the NFL could only dream of.