Week 5 of the 2026 NFL season saw a slew of injuries affecting key fantasy football players, with multiple teams impacted by ailments that could shape Week 6 lineups. Notable injuries include Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who sustained a rib injury but is expected to avoid missing significant time, and Houston Texans running back David Montgomery, sidelined week-to-week with a groin injury after a strong start to the season. Other running backs like New England’s TreVeyon Henderson and Cleveland’s Quinshon Judkins suffered ankle injuries, while Eagles’ Will Shipley faces a potentially lengthy absence due to a partial plantar fascia tear.

Wide receivers faced setbacks too, with Dallas Cowboys’ CeeDee Lamb leaving Week 5’s game early with a quadriceps bruise, though his injury is deemed not serious. Deebo Samuel of the 49ers will miss multiple weeks after a hamstring injury, affecting a team already plagued by receiver injuries. The Pittsburgh Steelers’ receiving corps took a hit as Michael Pittman Jr. landed on injured reserve and Roman Wilson is out for several weeks with a finger injury. Meanwhile, Browns rookie KC Concepcion suffered a concussion on a hit, putting his Week 6 status in doubt.

Tight ends were not spared, with Minnesota’s T.J. Hockenson and New York Jets’ Kenyon Sadiq both diagnosed with concussions, casting uncertainty on their availability for upcoming games. The Vikings benefit from a Week 6 bye, potentially giving Hockenson extra time to recover. The Jets’ Sadiq, however, faces immediate uncertainty. The overall injury environment underscores the importance of monitoring concussion protocols and being strategic about deep roster moves, especially at tight end positions.

On a positive note, some players may return soon. Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is hopeful for a Week 6 comeback from an ankle sprain. The Eagles look optimistic about the return of Saquon Barkley and DeVonta Smith, both hampered by hamstring injuries, though their play this week depends on practice status. New England’s A.J. Brown might also return around Week 6, potentially boosting quarterback Drake Maye’s fantasy appeal. Fantasy managers should keep a close eye on practice reports to make timely lineup adjustments as Week 6 approaches.