Last week, the NFC East couldn't produce a single win even with all four teams in action. To be going into Week 6 without a clear frontrunner is very unusual for this division, and now the arguable favorite has taken a huge blow to their 2026 prospects.
A last-minute loss to the Jaguars in London was bad enough for the Eagles' recent events. But now they've placed QB Jalen Hurts on injured reserve with blood clot issues. He will definitely miss four games, and the timetable for his recovery is cloudy beyond that.
Tanner McKee is an intriguing backup and could keep Philadelphia afloat during this time. And he may feel even les pressure if none of the Cowboys, Giants, or Commanders rise to the occasion, which is one of the great mysteries for the NFC East going forward.
The Cowboys looked lost for the better part of their loss to a previously winless Tampa Bay. New York and Washington finished their division showdown in a tie, with the Commanders blowing a game-winning opportunity in overtime.
Especially with Philly's new disadvantage, the NFC East is about as wide open as it gets. But at the same time, we've rarely seen it so weak and without a clear top dog or two. The stage is set for a fascinating finish to the 2026 season.
NFC East standings after Week 5
Note: Division record in parentheses
1. New York Giants 3-1-1 (1-0-1)
2. Philadelphia Eagles 2-3 (1-0)
3. Dallas Cowboys 2-3 (1-1)
4. Washington Commanders 1-3-1 (0-2-1)
So, what's on deck for Week 6?
The Cowboys have a big one tonight in Green Bay. Micah Parsons didn't make it back from injury for the Packers, and Dallas is still trying to figure out how to rush a passer without him. The Cowboys have put themselves in this awful place where a very tough road game still feels "must win."
McKee's first task as QB1 in Philly is fending off the Panthers. Carolina's 2-2 and gritty, coming off a big win over the Lions. The Eagles' offense may look very different with a new man under center, which has potential to work in their favor early on.
The Giants can keep their current perch atop the division if they defend home field against the Saints. At 1-4, New Orleans' rebuild seems to be ongoing. New York's done pretty well against weaker teams so far this year, so this may be another record-padding opportunity for them.
Washington faces a much different kind of opponent this Monday night, visiting the undefeated 49ers. It's a very unwelcome assignment as the Commanders are already teetering on collapse, with Dan Quinn's seat reportedly near boiling. For as open as the NFC East currently feels, Washington still feels like a longshot.
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