New York Giants vs. Washington Commanders: 5 players to start/sit for fantasy football in Week 5

The New York Giants will take on the Washington Commanders in Week 5, aiming to maintain their strong start to the 2026 season. The Giants are currently 3-1, while Washington is 1-3 after a recent loss to the Indianapolis Colts in London. New York leads the division for the first time since 2015. There are several fantasy football considerations for this matchup.

Starting in the Giants' offense, Malik Nabers is a strong choice. The wide receiver had an impressive performance against the Cardinals, catching six passes for 112 yards and a touchdown on just seven targets. Nabers has struggled with a knee injury, missing Wednesday's practice and practicing limitedly on Thursday. If cleared to play, Nabers should start in most lineups.

Isaiah Likely is another Giants player to start. He has been a key target for Jameis Winston, catching seven passes for 66 yards in Week 4. Likely benefits from favorable matchups against Washington's secondary, which has struggled against passing attacks. Washington has allowed a high number of fantasy points to tight ends, making Likely an appealing PPR option.

For the Commanders, Jayden Daniels is expected to return from an elbow injury and play in Week 5. The quarterback has thrown three touchdowns without an interception and added 100 rushing yards on 12 carries. Daniels' rushing ability and potential fantasy floor make him a borderline QB1 option. However, he will wear a brace on his injured elbow.

Terry McLaurin, a key Washington wide receiver, is a more complicated decision. McLaurin missed the Week 4 game with a hamstring injury and has not practiced this week. While McLaurin's fantasy production could improve with Daniels' return, his hamstring injury and Washington's struggling pass-catcher situation make him a risky start. If McLaurin is active and shows no signs of injury, he could be started, but his performance may be inconsistent.