Five Chargers to Watch Out for in Week Five
The Los Angeles Chargers are getting ready for their Week Five game against the Washington Commanders, and a few players stand out as crucial contributors who could decide victory. The squad lost to the New York Giants in Week Four of the 2025 NFL season. Making this their first defeat of the year. Derius Davis is officially sidelined due to a knee injury as of October 3rd, and Joe Alt is out while he heals from an ankle injury. On the Thursday report, Davis was identified as a DNP. Dynamic young players and seasoned veterans will be essential to the Chargers' success on both sides of the ball as they attempt to recover and reclaim the AFC West.
Omarion Hampton: A Rising Newcomer
Omarion Hampton has shown himself to be a dependable offensive weapon for the Chargers. Following the season-ending Achilles injury suffered by Najee Harris, Hampton is a rookie running back filling in for Harris's absence. Hampton demonstrated his explosiveness and backfield vision last week against the Giants, running an outstanding 128 yards and scoring a touchdown on only 12 touches. Hampton's remarkable performance has made him a player to keep an eye on, particularly as the Chargers search for reliable rushing game output with injuries elsewhere. He was also the only Chargers running back with carries in Week Four and was second in snap rate of 88% in that game. He is an essential component of the Week Five game plan because of his ability to spot openings and break away for big plays.
Quentin Johnston: A Starring Wide Receiver
This season, Quentin Johnston is becoming Justin Herbert's top target. With at least seven targets per game, he often draws large target volumes and has already scored four touchdowns. Last week, Johnston demonstrated his ability to make big plays with a noteworthy 36-yard touchdown reception. Against the Commanders' secondary, which has had trouble holding onto top receivers this season, his stature and developing rapport with Herbert could be the difference.
Justin Herbert: The Heart of the Chargers
Recent losses to the offensive line have put Justin Herbert under a lot of strain, but he is still vital to the Chargers. Herbert ran for 94 yards over four games, demonstrating his effectiveness despite being sacked several times in the previous game. His ability to make snap decisions and have strong arms is essential as he tries to spark Los Angeles' passing offense against one of the league's weakest defenses. Overcoming the line's problems and directing the attack will be made possible by Herbert's leadership.
Tuli Tuipulotu: Defensive Force
Tuli Tuipulotu's unrelenting pass rush continues to improve. He added four sacks to his season total last week against the Giants, demonstrating his ability to interfere with opposing quarterbacks as the Giants placed Jaxson Dart as their starting quarterback. To limit the Commanders' offense and force turnovers, Tuipulotu's pressure up front will be crucial as the Chargers' top edge presence. His swiftness and power make him a guy the Commanders’ offensive line must account for.
Keenan Allen: Veteran Leader and Reliable Target
In 2025, veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen rejoined the Chargers and has since established himself as a vital member of the offense. At 33 years old, which is considered ancient for a wide receiver, he has not played a full regular season since 2019. He rejoined the Chargers in August of 2025 for a one-year deal. Last season, he was signed with the Chicago Bears. As an alternative captain, he leads the team in receptions and touchdowns, ranking second. The Chargers and fantasy managers heavily rely on Allen because of his dependability, particularly during crucial red-zone situations.
Key Players and Challenges for the Chargers in Week Five
After suffering their first defeat of the season in Week Four, the Los Angeles Chargers take on the Washington Commanders in a pivotal rebound game in Week Five. The Chargers will mostly rely on both up-and-coming players and seasoned veterans to get them through the challenge while key players like Derius Davis and Joe Alt are out due to injury. Reviving the offense will largely depend on Omarion Hampton's dynamic running, Quentin Johnston's big-play potential, and Justin Herbert's ability to lead under duress. Tuli Tuipulotu's unrelenting pass rush will be crucial on defense to thwart the Commanders' assault and force turnovers. As an alternative captain, veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen demonstrates leadership by contributing priceless expertise and dependability, particularly in crucial situations like the red zone. These five players collectively embody the Chargers' core values as they work to overcome hardship and maintain their dominance in the AFC West. As the Chargers look to regain momentum and get back to their winning ways, their performances will not only determine the result against Washington but also the tone for the remainder of the 2025 campaign.
