Week 5 of the 2024 NFL season was a showcase of top-tier quarterback play, with some of the league’s highest-paid signal-callers stepping up when it mattered most. As the games unfolded, certain players and teams rose to the occasion, while others stumbled under the pressure. From last-minute heroics to costly mistakes, Week 5 delivered excitement and drama that reshaped early playoff narratives.
Winners:
1. Patrick Mahomes – Kansas City Chiefs
It’s no surprise that Patrick Mahomes once again tops the list of winners this week. The Chiefs’ franchise quarterback proved why he’s worth every penny of his mega contract, leading Kansas City to a thrilling last-minute victory. Mahomes’ ability to extend plays, make precision throws, and outthink defenses in crunch time makes him virtually unstoppable. Against a tough opponent, he delivered multiple clutch throws down the stretch, sealing the win and keeping the Chiefs perfect on the season.
Mahomes finished the game with over 300 passing yards and multiple touchdowns, but more importantly, he showed his trademark poise under pressure. With the game on the line, there’s no one else a coach would want leading their offense.
2. Josh Allen – Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen continues to prove that he’s one of the league’s elite quarterbacks, and his Week 5 performance was another reminder of his immense talent. The Bills faced a close contest against a resilient defense, but Allen’s ability to perform in critical moments stood out. With his mix of deep-ball accuracy, rushing ability, and pure physicality, Allen accounted for four total touchdowns—two through the air and two on the ground.
Allen’s high-energy play style can occasionally lead to turnovers, but this week, he was sharp and efficient. His leadership helped the Bills pull off a victory in a game that could have easily slipped away. For Buffalo, Allen continues to be their franchise cornerstone and a player capable of taking them deep into the playoffs.
3. Jalen Hurts – Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles remain one of the top teams in the NFL, and Jalen Hurts is a big reason why. In Week 5, Hurts led the Eagles to a come-from-behind win with a late touchdown drive that highlighted his growth as a quarterback. His decision-making and ability to make plays under pressure were crucial as Philadelphia improved to 4-1.
Hurts’ dual-threat ability was on full display, as he not only threw for over 250 yards but also contributed on the ground. His calm demeanor in key moments and his ever-growing chemistry with wide receiver A.J. Brown make Hurts a consistent threat to opposing defenses.
Losers:
1. Mac Jones – New England Patriots
It’s been a tough season for Mac Jones and the Patriots, and Week 5 was no different. Facing one of the league’s top defenses, Jones struggled mightily, throwing multiple interceptions and failing to generate any meaningful offense. The Patriots’ loss was a direct result of Jones’ inability to make smart decisions with the football.
While many expected Jones to take a step forward in his development this season, he’s regressed, and the Patriots’ offense looks stagnant. With New England’s playoff hopes fading, Jones needs to bounce back quickly, or the team could be forced to explore other options at quarterback.
2. Justin Fields – Chicago Bears
Justin Fields entered Week 5 with the hopes of building on some promising performances from earlier in the season. However, the young quarterback faltered in a disappointing loss. Despite his athleticism and ability to make plays with his legs, Fields continues to struggle with consistency in the passing game. His decision-making under pressure led to multiple sacks and a costly turnover that swung momentum in favor of the opposing team.
While Fields has undeniable talent, his inability to string together complete performances raises concerns about his future as the Bears’ franchise quarterback. Chicago’s coaching staff will need to find a way to better support Fields if they hope to see more consistent results.
3. Russell Wilson – Denver Broncos
Russell Wilson’s struggles continued in Week 5, as the Broncos dropped another close game. Once regarded as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks, Wilson has yet to find his footing in Denver’s offense. His inability to move the ball effectively in key moments cost the Broncos a chance to win late in the game.
Wilson’s decline has been a significant storyline over the last two seasons, and Week 5 did little to change the narrative. Despite flashes of his former brilliance, the high-priced quarterback hasn’t lived up to his contract, and the Broncos are facing an uphill battle to remain competitive in the AFC West.
The Bottom Line
Week 5 of the NFL season reinforced the importance of elite quarterback play in today’s league. Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Jalen Hurts all showcased why they are worth their lucrative contracts, guiding their teams to crucial victories when it mattered most. On the other hand, quarterbacks like Mac Jones, Justin Fields, and Russell Wilson struggled to deliver, putting their teams in difficult positions.
As the season progresses, the pressure on these high-profile quarterbacks will only intensify. For some, like Mahomes and Allen, the future looks bright, while others, like Jones and Fields, may find themselves at a crossroads in their careers. Regardless, Week 5 offered a snapshot of the highs and lows of NFL quarterback play, and the stage is set for even more drama in the weeks to come.
