The Week 4 NFL schedule for the 2025 season brings some exciting matchups.
Rookie QB Jaxson Dart will make his debut against the surging Chargers. Packers edge rusher Micah Parsons makes his highly anticipated return to Dallas. And the Ravens and Chiefs — two of the league’s most unlikely 1-2 teams — will face off in an AFC showdown.
We have you covered with everything you need to know. Our NFL Nation reporters take you inside the locker room with the best thing they heard this week, and ESPN Research provides a key stat to know and a betting nugget for each contest. Plus, analytics writer Seth Walder makes a bold prediction for each matchup, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody shares fantasy football intel. We also have Football Power Index (FPI) matchup quality ratings (out of 100) and game projections, and three analysts — Pamela Maldonado, Moody and Walder — give us final score picks for every game.
Let’s get into the full Week 4 slate, which culminates with two “Monday Night Football” matchups — one between the Jets and Dolphins on ESPN, and one between the Bengals and Broncos. (Game times are Sunday unless otherwise noted.)
Jump to a matchup:
PIT-MIN | PHI-TB | CLE-DET
LAC-NYG | NO-BUF | WSH-ATL
CAR-NE | TEN-HOU | IND-LAR
JAX-SF | BAL-KC | CHI-LV
GB-DAL | NYJ-MIA | CIN-DEN
Thursday: SEA-ARI
9:30 a.m. ET | NFL Network | Matchup rating: 48.6/100
ESPN BET: MIN -2.5 (40.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Steelers: Pittsburgh’s defense has allowed a league-high 32 plays of at least 20 passing yards or 12 rushing yards this season. The Vikings enter Sunday’s matchup with just eight plays of 20 yards or more, but they return a major target in WR Jordan Addison, who served a three-game suspension. Pittsburgh, though, could also get help in the secondary with the potential return of S DeShon Elliott (knee) and CB Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring), who both haven’t played since Week 1. — Brooke Pryor
What we’re hearing on the Vikings: The Vikings had a chance to sign QB Aaron Rodgers, who instead joined the Steelers after the Vikings committed to giving J.J. McCarthy first-team snaps throughout the spring and summer. McCarthy will miss his second consecutive game because of a sprained ankle, and Carson Wentz will start. The question the Vikings asked themselves this offseason was if they would be better with McCarthy on a rookie contract and a backup like Wentz, whose cap number is $1.2 million this season, or Rodgers at $14.2 million. Sunday’s game will be a litmus test for that question. — Kevin Seifert
Stat to know: The Vikings have allowed an average of 141.3 passing yards per game, which is the third fewest in the league. On the other hand, the Steelers are 24th in the NFL in passing yards per game (184.0). — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Vikings LB Andrew Van Ginkel will record a pick-six. How could I not pick this? Van Ginkel is the king of jumping horizontal passes and taking them to the house, and no one loves a screen pass more than Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. It’s a match made in defensive touchdown paradise. — Walder
Injuries: Steelers | Vikings
Fantasy nugget: Vikings TE T.J. Hockenson struggled early in the season but exploded in Week 3 with 15.9 fantasy points. He tied for the team lead in receptions (five) and finished second in targets (six) and yards (49). Despite splitting time with Josh Oliver and Ben Yurosek, Hockenson has played more snaps and routes, keeping him a fantasy starter, especially with a favorable matchup against a Pittsburgh defense that gives up the second-most points to tight ends. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Steelers are 20-8-2 ATS (against the spread) as home underdogs (18-12 outright) under coach Mike Tomlin. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Vikings 24, Steelers 18
Moody’s pick: Vikings 24, Steelers 20
Walder’s pick: Vikings 27, Steelers 19
FPI prediction: MIN, 57.8 (by an average of 3.1 points)
Matchup must-reads: Peppers leads defensive surge for Steelers, but there’s room for improvement … Why Vikings wanted to play back-to-back in Dublin, London … … Will Vikings’ McCarthy start over Wentz once healthy?
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup rating: 73.9/100
ESPN BET: PHI -3.5 (43.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Eagles: The Eagles are 1-3 in Tampa Bay under coach Nick Sirianni and have not been their best in the Florida heat. They flew out Friday, a day early, to get acclimated to the weather (it’s supposed to be 90 degrees with 68% humidity on Sunday). But not everyone is convinced the approach will pay dividends. “You don’t practice in heat one day and say you’re acclimated or take a pill and say you’re acclimated,” defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said. “The key will be, I mean, it’s a mindset, No. 1. No. 2, we need to not let them have eight-, 10-, 12-play drives on us.” — Tim McManus
What we’re hearing on the Buccaneers: Bucs coach Todd Bowles was asked about being a “hero” to the people of Philadelphia because he has come out in support of the tush push. The Elizabeth, New Jersey, native and Temple grad who spent one season as an assistant in Philly joked, “I think the only place I might be a hero at is Ishkabibble’s down on South Street, getting the cheesesteak. Other than that … It’s a good play, it’s a creative play for them, and we’ve got to get better as defensive coaches trying to be creative to stop it.” — Jenna Laine
Stat to know: Eagles QB Jalen Hurts is 1-4 in his career against Buccaneers (including the playoffs), his most losses versus any team. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Philadelphia will record a positive pass rate over expectation (per NFL Next Gen Stats) for the first time this season. Tampa Bay ranks first in EPA allowed per opponent designed run, so the Eagles are going to have to rely on Hurts’ dropbacks, perhaps even more than they did last week. The good news for the Eagles: They can win that way, too. — Walder
Injuries: Eagles | Buccaneers
Fantasy nugget: Emeka Egbuka takes over as the Buccaneers’ No. 1 WR with Mike Evans sidelined for multiple weeks (hamstring). He has racked up 21 targets and 51 fantasy points through three games and will be busy against the Eagles’ secondary. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Buccaneers are 15-6 ATS as underdogs (10-11 outright) since acquiring QB Baker Mayfield in 2023, the best record in the NFL in that span. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Eagles 34, Buccaneers 27
Moody’s pick: Eagles 24, Buccaneers 23
Walder’s pick: Eagles 24, Buccaneers 17
FPI prediction: PHI, 54.6% (by an average of 1.8 points)
Matchup must-reads: Inside the tactic NFL teams are using to combat the tush push … Buccaneers’ Evans expected to miss 3-4 weeks, sources say
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup rating: 57.5/100
ESPN BET: DET -9.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Browns: Cleveland’s defense has a claim as the league’s best, allowing the fewest yards in the NFL per game (204.3). However, the Lions’ offense, which ranks second in scoring and first in EPA per play, will be Cleveland’s biggest test to date. The Browns will be on alert for everything, from Detroit’s use of motion and trick plays to its fourth-down aggressiveness. “Runs, play-action, screens, they’re probably the leader in the NFL when it comes to combining all three of those things on first and second down,” defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz said. “We’ll have to take away what they do best. Every play is going to be a battle.” — Daniel Oyefusi
What we’re hearing on the Lions: After their first win at Baltimore as an organization, the Lions are looking to avoid a trap game against the Browns. Detroit has a league-leading 11 red zone touchdowns this season, while its defense sacked Ravens QB Lamar Jackson seven times. The Lions hope to continue that output on Sunday. “I can understand emotions being high … but ultimately every game in the NFL takes a certain amount of focus and a certain amount of drive and willingness,” edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson said. “And it’s like if you don’t show up, you’re going to get your butt kicked, and we all know that.” — Eric Woodyard
Stat to know: Lions WR Amon-Ra St. Brown has 450 receptions in 69 games since entering league in 2021 (most in the NFL over span). Since the AFL/NFL merger in 1970, only two players have more receptions in their first 70 career games: Michael Thomas with 510 (2016-20) and Justin Jefferson with 451 (2020-24). — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Browns will hold both Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery to under 4.0 yards per carry. Cleveland’s defense ranks first in yards allowed per rush (2.3) and run stop win rate (38%). — Walder
Injuries: Browns | Lions
Fantasy nugget: The Browns’ defensive front is not to be trifled with and currently leads the league in run stop win rate. The Lions had a ton of success running the ball in Week 3 with Gibbs and Montgomery. However, Detroit would be wise to lean on QB Jared Goff, St. Brown and the passing game against the Browns. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Lions are 12-4 ATS in September under coach Dan Campbell. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Lions 38, Browns 7
Moody’s pick: Lions 30, Browns 16
Walder’s pick: Lions 24, Browns 13
FPI prediction: DET, 78.1% (by an average of 12.0 points)
Matchup must-reads: How the Browns’ defense has turned back the clock to 2023 form … Rushing attack, pass rush help Lions defeat Ravens on road … Deion thinks Shedeur will start for Browns in ’25 … GM Holmes wants to build a dynasty — and a legacy — in Detroit
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup rating: 51.6/100
ESPN BET: LAC -6.5 (43.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Chargers: Chargers LB Daiyan Henley said the defense is taking Sunday’s matchup against rookie QB Jaxson Dart as a “challenge.” “This is going to be a guy that’s trying to prove something. And so, for us, we have to also prove how tough of a defense we are to face,” Henley said. “So, for us, he’s going to get our best, and I’m sure we’re going to get his.” The Chargers are currently allowing the ninth-lowest passing yards per game on defense (182.0). — Kris Rhim
What we’re hearing on the Giants: The Giants made the QB switch from Russell Wilson to Dart this week, even though they’re set to face a tough Chargers defense. But the hope is that the rookie adds some new elements to the offense and finally gets the team in the win column. “I think the biggest thing for me is I want to do my best to be a spark,” Dart said. “I want to create excitement on the field. I want to be explosive when opportunities are there. Try to just bring a little bit of swagger.” — Jordan Raanan
Stat to know: Quarterbacks making their first career start against the Chargers are 3-17 in the Super Bowl era (since 1967), but 2-2 in such games since 2019. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Chargers CB Donte Jackson will record an interception. Jackson has the lowest yards allowed per coverage snap (0.2) among all outside corners with at least 75 coverage snaps this season, per NFL Next Gen Stats, and is doing it without a low target rate (13%). Facing Dart in his debut, the chances of a pick are higher. — Walder
Injuries: Chargers | Giants
Fantasy nugget: Chargers RB Omarion Hampton is set up for significant touches in the backfield with Najee Harris out for the season after suffering an Achilles injury in Week 3. Hampton finished with 25 touches and 24.9 fantasy points last week and could replicate that production against a Giants defense that has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points per game to running backs. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Giants are 3-11 ATS in their past 14 games as underdogs. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Chargers 30, Giants 17
Moody’s pick: Chargers 33, Giants 23
Walder’s pick: Chargers 27, Giants 20
FPI prediction: LAC, 76.0% (by an average of 10.6 points)
Matchup must-reads: How RB Harris’ Achilles injury affects the Chargers … No turning back now, Giants all-in on Dart as QB starter
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup rating: 50.7/100
ESPN BET: BUF -15.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Saints: Saints coach Kellen Moore expressed his confidence in starting QB Spencer Rattler following the loss to the Seahawks. Moore indicated the Saints wouldn’t be following the Giants’ lead and switching quarterbacks anytime soon, and said Rattler realizes how much confidence the team has in him. He thinks Rattler — who is 0-9 as a starter dating back to last season — is headed in the right direction. “It’s frustrating because Spencer hasn’t been able to get a win in this league, and he’s earned it and he deserves it. He’s done so much good,” Moore said. — Katherine Terrell
What we’re hearing on the Bills: Despite sitting on the largest point spread of the season, per ESPN BET, the emphasis from the Bills is that they are treating Sunday’s game like any other. QB Josh Allen said he expects the Saints “to have their ears pinned back. They want to win as badly as anybody in the league right now. And again, there’s no easy games in this league.” The Bills have a 13-game home winning streak in the regular season but could be without three starters (DT Ed Oliver, LB Matt Milano and RT Spencer Brown) due to injuries. — Alaina Getzenberg
Stat to know: The Bills have gone eight straight games without a turnover (including the playoffs), which is tied with the 2024 Chiefs for the longest streak with zero turnovers since 1933. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Saints LB Demario Davis will lead the NFL in combined tackles in Week 4. The Bills will get out to a lead so large that they will run the ball a ton. And Davis ranks second among linebackers in tackle rate versus run plays, earning a tackle or assist on 29% of opponent’s runs. — Walder
Injuries: Saints | Bills
Fantasy nugget: The Bills are heavy home favorites against the Saints, which bodes well for RB James Cook. He has had 18-plus touches and 20-plus fantasy points in three straight games. Buffalo’s offensive line, the league leader in run block win rate (76.6%), should dominate a Saints front that has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points per game to running backs. In deeper formats, don’t overlook fellow RB Ty Johnson as a potential sleeper. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Rattler is 1-8 ATS in his career as a starter. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Bills 35, Saints 14
Moody’s pick: Bills 34, Saints 16
Walder’s pick: Bills 33, Saints 7
FPI prediction: BUF, 80.5% (by an average of 13.1 points)
Matchup must-reads: Davis and Jordan’s leadership is pivotal for 0-3 Saints … Lingering Bills questions amid historic run on turnover margin … Winless Saints lament Week 3 loss: ‘A very powerful lesson for our guys on adversity’
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup rating: 49.6/100
ESPN BET: WSH -1.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Commanders: With a banged-up offense missing multiple starters — perhaps as many as five on Sunday — Washington’s defense needs to take the lead. And that means stopping Falcons RB Bijan Robinson at all costs. Washington ranks 12th in rushing yards allowed per game (100.7) and eighth in yards per carry (3.7) after investing in bigger linemen and more depth up front. But stopping Robinson will prove challenging. “I see no weaknesses for the guy,” defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. said. “He can do it all — run inside, outside, can catch. He does it all very, very well.” — John Keim
What we’re hearing on the Falcons: Is this a must-win game for the Falcons? Maybe not since it’s only Week 4, but it is a must-look-competent game for them. Specifically, their offense needs to step up after last week’s 30-0 drubbing at the hands of the Panthers. Coach Raheem Morris is not too worried about Atlanta showing up this week. He said that due to “human nature,” there’s more urgency after any loss and “particularly a loss like that.” — Marc Raimondi
Stat to know: Commanders QB Marcus Mariota made 13 starts for the Falcons in 2022, going 5-8 with 15 passing touchdowns and nine interceptions. He was replaced by then-rookie Desmond Ridder for the final four games of the season. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. will average under 6.0 air yards per attempt. After last week’s disastrous performance, watch to see if the Falcons — and Penix — err on the side of caution as they try to get back on track. — Walder
Injuries: Commanders | Falcons
Fantasy nugget: This could be the week WR Drake London breaks out. The Commanders’ defensive front ranks third in run stop win rate (35.4%) and has done a great job limiting fantasy points to running backs. But Washington has allowed big plays through the air. The Falcons fired WR coach Ike Hilliard after offensive struggles, and Penix hasn’t thrown a touchdown to a wide receiver or tight end yet this season. But Week 4 could be London’s moment. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Commanders have covered all four meetings with the Falcons since 2021. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Falcons 29, Commanders 27
Moody’s pick: Commanders 23, Falcons 17
Walder’s pick: Commanders 20, Falcons 17
FPI prediction: WSH, 58.6% (by an average of 3.9 points)
Matchup must-reads: Commanders’ Daniels (knee) practices, says status up to doctors … Dazed Falcons look to put 30-0 loss to Panthers behind them … Source: Commanders’ McLaurin seeks more input on quad injury
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup rating: 30.2/100
ESPN BET: NE -5.5 (42.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Panthers: Panthers TE Tommy Tremble referred to the height rookie WR Tetairoa McMillan reached for a 4-yard catch from QB Bryce Young against Atlanta as “Mario jumping,” to which McMillan insisted this isn’t Mario ball. Sunday’s game won’t be either. It’ll be won in the trenches, where it’ll be strength against strength, as Carolina will want to a run against a New England defense that’s allowing only 60.3 rushing yards per game. — David Newton
What we’re hearing on the Patriots: Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said he spent two hours Tuesday night studying the Panthers’ kickoff coverage, which includes knuckleball kicks from Ryan Fitzgerald. They’ve proved challenging for opposing returners to handle. “It’s impressive. He kicks a good kick, [a] dirty kick. He’s had the returners sometimes confused,” said Vrabel, who believes Patriots returners TreVeyon Henderson and Antonio Gibson have the skill set to decide games. But the New England kick return unit was outplayed in its Week 3 loss. — Mike Reiss
Stat to know: Young is 1-14 in his first 15 career road starts, tied with Steve DeBerg, Dan Pastorini and Blake Bortles for the second-worst record by a QB through his first 15 road starts since starts were first tracked in 1950. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Patriots QB Drake Maye will throw for 300 or more yards for the first time in his career. No team has a larger difference between its EPA per dropback and EPA per designed carry in favor of the passing game than New England. So why not let Maye air it out all day? — Walder
Injuries: Panthers | Patriots
Fantasy nugget: TE Hunter Henry has emerged as Maye’s top target in New England, coming off a 29-point fantasy performance in Week 3. He has seen eight-plus targets in two of three games, and now faces a Panthers defense allowing the eighth-most fantasy points to tight ends. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: This is the largest the Patriots have been a favorite since Week 7 of 2022, when they were favored by 8.5 versus the Bears. They lost that game 33-14. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Panthers 20, Patriots 15
Moody’s pick: Patriots 24, Panthers 20
Walder’s pick: Patriots 30, Panthers 17
FPI prediction: NE, 56.1% (by an average of 2.4 points)
Matchup must-reads: Kuechly sees potential in Panthers’ defensive youth … Patriots’ Vrabel on Stevenson’s costly fumbles, benching: Still ‘need him’ … Panthers’ defense comes alive in 30-0 shutout of Falcons
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup rating: 22.6/100
ESPN BET: HOU -7.5 (38.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Titans: The Texans’ defense is allowing 17.0 points per game, tied for the fifth-best average in the league. Houston’s pass rush has also generated nine sacks (tied for fourth best in the NFL), which presents a tough challenge for a Titans offense that has scored only 17.0 points per game and has allowed a league-worst 15 sacks. The Titans hope new playcaller Bo Hardegree can have an impact similar to when he took over as the interim offensive coordinator for the Raiders in 2023 and helped boost Las Vegas’ average points per game by seven. — Turron Davenport
What we’re hearing on the Texans: Expect some extra juice between Texans WR Nico Collins and Titans CB L’Jarius Sneed. Sneed, when asked about Collins earlier this week, said “who?” in a dismissive way. When Collins was asked about Sneed’s comments, he said “he knows who I am.” As the Texans try to get their last-ranked scoring offense going, expect Collins to do everything in his power to get the unit some juice. — DJ Bien-Aime
Stat to know: The Texans have yet to score 20 points in a game this season. The last time Houston scored less than 20 points in each of the first four games of a season was in 2002, the team’s debut season. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Titans WR Calvin Ridley will record an 80-plus-yard receiving game. Ridley has the third-worst receiving yards over expectation (minus-82) in the NFL this season, behind only Jaguars WR Brian Thomas Jr. and Panthers WR Xavier Legette. Which, granted, isn’t an amazing sign. But it is a sign that the ball is coming his way, and I expect that to continue. One of these days he’s going to have a big game. — Walder
Injuries: Titans | Texans
Fantasy nugget: The Texans’ offensive line has struggled mightily this season and currently ranks 21st in run block win rate (70.3%). The Titans’ defensive front has allowed the third-most fantasy points per game to running backs. RB Nick Chubb is on the flex radar, and for those in need of a sleeper, don’t overlook RB Woody Marks. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Titans coach Brian Callahan is 3-17 ATS, the worst mark of any coach in the Super Bowl era. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Texans 17, Titans 10
Moody’s pick: Texans 23, Titans 17
Walder’s pick: Texans 27, Titans 17
FPI prediction: HOU, 69.3% (by an average of 7.9 points)
Matchup must-reads: Why Titans coach Callahan gave up playcalling duties … Texans say being ‘close’ in one-score games not good enough … Callahan says Brownlee trade doesn’t signal Titans fire sale … Texans release Gardner-Johnson after just three games
4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup rating: 66.6/100
ESPN BET: LAR -3.5 (50.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Colts: The Colts have enjoyed great rushing success so far, with star RB Jonathan Taylor leading the NFL with 338 yards. But the Rams offer a stiff test, having allowed just one rushing touchdown and 3.9 yards per rush. Whether Taylor and the Colts can achieve some rushing consistency will have an impact on how successful their surprisingly efficient passing game can remain. The Colts have achieved great offensive balance, but whether Taylor can find running lanes against a tough defensive front remains to be seen. — Stephen Holder
What we’re hearing on the Rams: The Rams have 12 sacks this season, which is tied with the Broncos for the most in the NFL. Colts QB Daniel Jones has been sacked only twice, which is the fewest among qualified quarterbacks, according to ESPN Research. Rams coach Sean McVay noted the efficiency the Colts have played with this season, saying, “They’re not playing behind the sticks.” “He’s obviously got the mobility to be able to make you pay as a runner, but I think he’s reading well with his feet,” McVay said of Jones. “He throws the ball with great accuracy and anticipation.” — Sarah Barshop
Stat to know: Rams QB Matthew Stafford co-leads the NFL in completions (29), passing touchdowns (four with zero interceptions) and first downs (17) on play-action this season. Meanwhile, Indianapolis’ defense has 10 interceptions on play-action throws under coach Shane Steichen (since 2023) — tied for second most over that span. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Taylor will run the ball more than 20 times in a loss by at least seven points. That would be the most by any player in such a loss this season. But expect the Colts to be run-heavy no matter what on Sunday: They already lean that way, and the Rams’ defense ranks sixth in EPA allowed per opponent dropback but 22nd against the run. — Walder
Injuries: Colts | Rams
Fantasy nugget: Rams RB Kyren Williams is coming off a Week 3 game in which he set season highs in touches (22), total yards (112) and fantasy points (19.2). He faces a Colts defensive front ranked 27th in run stop win rate (26.8%). With the Rams’ offensive line — 11th in run block win rate (72.9%) — holding the advantage, McVay and Williams should be able to capitalize. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Colts are 3-0 ATS this season with the highest average cover margin in the NFL (13.8). Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Rams 31, Colts 27
Moody’s pick: Colts 28, Rams 24
Walder’s pick: Rams 24, Colts 16
FPI prediction: LAR, 55.5% (by an average of 2.5 points)
Matchup must-reads: Colts sign CB Hilton after Moore injured … Rams have to come back stronger after first loss of season
4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup rating: 58.7/100
ESPN BET: SF -3.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Jaguars: Drops have been the topic of the week. That’s understandable, as the Jaguars lead the league with 10 and are coming off a week in which they dropped six — including three by WR Brian Thomas Jr. Coach Liam Coen’s message to the pass catchers: “Attack the ball.” He wants them to catch the ball out in front of their bodies and not let it cross their eyes. Drops are one of the main reasons the passing offense hasn’t gotten into rhythm yet. — Michael DiRocco
What we’re hearing on the 49ers: The 49ers have spent the week trying to figure out how to cover for the loss of star DE Nick Bosa, who is out for the season with a torn ACL. “Losing Nick is a big deal,” LB Fred Warner said. “That’s one of the best players, not just on our team but on the planet. We’ve got to find ways to continue to create those pressures.” One possibility? An increased blitz rate. In the 97 games the Niners have played with Bosa, they’ve blitzed just 20% of the time. In the 18 games they’ve played without him, that number has spiked to 31.9%. That could help against Jacksonville and QB Trevor Lawrence, who has thrown 13 interceptions when blitzed since 2021, tied for third most among qualified quarterbacks in that span. — Nick Wagoner
Stat to know: Niners RB Christian McCaffrey has had 50 rushing yards and 50 receiving yards in each game this season. He is seeking to become the second player in NFL history to start a season with four such consecutive games. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The 49ers will not sack Lawrence. The 49ers’ pass rush takes a big hit without Bosa, and Lawrence has been sacked on only 2.5% of dropbacks this season — the second-lowest rate among quarterbacks. — Walder
Injuries: Jaguars | 49ers
Fantasy nugget: The 49ers’ offense has been hit hard by injuries to QB Brock Purdy (toe), TE George Kittle (hamstring) and WR Jauan Jennings (shoulder, ankle) — and WR Ricky Pearsall has taken advantage. He has scored 14-plus fantasy points in two of three games, including a season-high 19.7 in Week 3. Next up is a Jaguars defense allowing the third-most receptions and sixth-most fantasy points per game to WRs. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jaguars have lost seven straight games following a win (2-5 ATS). Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: 49ers 20, Jaguars 10
Moody’s pick: 49ers 28, Jaguars 21
Walder’s pick: 49ers 23, Jaguars 17
FPI prediction: SF, 51.4% (by an average of 0.4 points)
Matchup must-reads: Jaguars QB Lawrence showing progress despite drops, impatient throws … Losing Bosa is ‘a big deal’: Here’s how the 49ers will look to replace him … Jaguars defense has found success forcing turnovers … Five things we’ve learned about 49ers QB Jones in 2025
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup rating: 86.8/100
ESPN BET: BAL -2.5 (48.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Ravens: The Ravens’ defense, which ranks last in the NFL for the first time since 2021, now faces its most challenging quarterback. The Ravens are 1-5 versus Patrick Mahomes (including the playoffs), who has thrown 14 touchdowns and three interceptions against the Baltimore defense. “I think one thing we touched on was just staying on your feet when he pump-fakes,” OLB Odafe Oweh said. “And then when you get there, try to hit him legally, as legally as you can in today’s NFL. We have to respect his playmaking ability.” — Jamison Hensley
What we’re hearing on the Chiefs: Following their first victory, the Chiefs are looking to have a complete performance on offense against the Ravens, hoping to build off the strong second half they had against the Giants. The expected return of speedy WR Xavier Worthy should help, too. “It’s going to make us even better because guys had to step up and they have,” Mahomes said. “You’ve seen Hollywood [Brown], you’ve seen JuJu [Smith-Schuster] and you’ve seen Tyquan [Thornton] all step up into their roles. We’ll continue to get better and better as the season goes, but it’ll be an important week this week.” — Nate Taylor
Stat to know: The Ravens have scored 111 points this season, which is the most by a team with a losing record through three games in NFL history. The most points by a team with a losing record through four games is 140 by the 2022 Lions, who finished the season 8-9 and missed playoffs. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Ravens will win by double digits. Detroit was able to run the ball incredibly effectively against the Ravens last week, and that gave it an edge. The Chiefs have no such threat, and without it, I think we’ll see Baltimore as the clearly superior team over Kansas City. — Walder
Injuries: Ravens | Chiefs
Fantasy nugget: Chiefs TE Travis Kelce hasn’t been the fantasy cheat code we’re used to in recent seasons. But with Kansas City’s offense struggling, it’ll need him heavily involved. Baltimore has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points per game to tight ends. Kelce has averaged 7.1 targets, six catches and 78.2 yards per game against Baltimore in his career. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Ravens QB Lamar Jackson is 31-15-2 ATS on the road. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Ravens 21, Chiefs 20
Moody’s pick: Ravens 31, Chiefs 26
Walder’s pick: Ravens 31, Chiefs 20
FPI prediction: BAL, 50.3% (by an average of 0.5 points)
Matchup must-reads: Ravens’ Humphrey: Struggling defense can’t put unfair expectations on Jackson … Thornton finding chemistry with Mahomes … Chiefs’ Reid brushes off Kelce dustup on sideline
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup rating: 38.7/100
ESPN BET: CHI -1.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Bears: Coach Ben Johnson tried to recognize QB Caleb Williams for being named NFC Offensive Player of the Week, but the quarterback wasn’t having it. Williams had quickly turned his focus from the Bears’ first win of the season to the Raiders and the things he can carry over from his second-ever game with four touchdowns. “He knows he needs to have an even better performance here this week to give us the best chance to win,” Johnson said. Chicago’s offensive output is significantly less on the road (15.9 PPG, 1-8 with Williams at QB), but the way Williams is playing (18 TDs, 2 INTs over his past 14 starts) has him vying for the second road victory of his career. — Courtney Cronin
What we’re hearing on the Raiders: Could rookie RB Ashton Jeanty’s breakout game come against the Bears? The opportunity is there: Chicago enters Sunday’s matchup allowing 5.5 rushing yards per carry (31st in the league). Jeanty, on the other hand, has averaged 3.1 yards per carry through three games. Even though he has flashed the skill set that made him worthy of being a top-10 pick, he hasn’t impacted the run game as expected. “I think he’s right where he needs to be,” QB Geno Smith said. “We have to help him … because when he gets an open field, man, he’s hard to stop. So, we’ve just got to get him into some more space and allow him to do his thing.” — Ryan McFadden
Stat to know: Last week was the first game of Williams’ career where he was not sacked. Chicago is now seeking have consecutive games without allowing a sack for the first time since November 2005. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Raiders TE Brock Bowers will bounce back with a 90-plus-yard receiving game. Of all targets against the Bears, 27% have gone to tight ends, the highest rate in the league. — Walder
Injuries: Bears | Raiders
Fantasy nugget: Raiders WR Jakobi Meyers is coming off a quiet Week 3, but don’t overreact. He saw 10-plus targets and scored 12-plus fantasy points in each of the first two games this season. The Bears have allowed the fourth-most fantasy points per game to wide receivers and are particularly vulnerable to slot production, where Meyers runs most of his routes. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bears are 12-23 ATS on the road since 2021. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Bears 34, Raiders 24
Moody’s pick: Bears 21, Raiders 20
Walder’s pick: Bears 34, Raiders 31
FPI prediction: CHI, 50.9% (by an average of 0.5 points)
Matchup must-reads: No sacks? New look of success for Williams, Bears … Will Raiders’ Carroll consider changes after another rough loss?
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | Matchup rating: 64.3/100
ESPN BET: GB -6.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Packers: The Packers have had all kinds of injury issues on the offensive line. They finished last week’s loss without RT Zach Tom (oblique) and LG Aaron Banks (groin), and the Browns pressured QB Jordan Love at a 42% rate — the highest of his career — and made it impossible for RB Josh Jacobs to run (16 carries, 30 yards). Green Bay could be without both linemen again on Sunday. But Elgton Jenkins, the Pro Bowl guard who moved to center this offseason, believes he could have helped had he played better. “I feel like I’ve played like s—, honestly,” Jenkins said. “Like, I can play a lot better. A lot of things, a lot of small detail things that I can fix, overall. But I just feel like I’ve played like s— and definitely got to play better moving forward.” — Rob Demovsky
What we’re hearing on the Cowboys: Maybe you’ve heard that edge Micah Parsons is returning to AT&T Stadium with the Packers this week. But inside the Cowboys’ locker room, it’s not a topic the players discuss unless asked about it by the media. “We love Micah,” DT Solomon Thomas said. “He was a brother here of ours. And we wish him the best, and so happy for him that he got record-breaking money, and he deserves all that money. But as a team, we’re not even thinking about that. We’re thinking about Green Bay, getting better from Chicago, fixing those mistakes. And on Sunday, it’s another championship opportunity to be our best. That all we’re focused on.” — Todd Archer
Stat to know: Parsons makes his return to Dallas as a league coleader with 14 QB pressures this season (tied with the Bills’ Joey Bosa and the Broncos’ Nik Bonitto), and as the sole leader in pass rush wins with 17. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Packers WRs Romeo Doubs and Matthew Golden will both record at least 65 receiving yards. Among outside cornerbacks with at least 75 coverage snaps, Cowboys CBs Kaiir Elam (2.3) and Trevon Diggs (1.7) rank second- and fourth-worst in yards allowed per coverage snap, respectively, per NFL Next Gen Stats. — Walder
Injuries: Packers | Cowboys
Fantasy nugget: Cowboys TE Jake Ferguson has seen 12-plus targets and scored 16-plus fantasy points in back-to-back games. With WR CeeDee Lamb sidelined by an ankle injury, Ferguson should remain a focal point of the Cowboys’ offense. The Packers’ defense is tough, but it has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends this season. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Packers are 61-42 ATS under coach Matt LaFleur, but only 11-16 ATS as road favorites, including a loss last week as 7.5-point road favorites against the Browns. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Packers 34, Cowboys 17
Moody’s pick: Packers 31, Cowboys 24
Walder’s pick: Packers 27, Cowboys 24
FPI prediction: GB, 60.0% (by an average of 3.6 points)
Matchup must-reads: Parsons’ hobby? Beating Packers teammates at H-O-R-S-E, pingpong and bowling … What’ll it be like for Parsons at Cowboys? … Parsons not upset Cowboys won’t recognize his return … Why Cowboys’ Jones likes talking contracts with players
Monday, 7:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | Matchup rating: 22.0/100
ESPN BET: MIA, -2.5 (45.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Jets: It seems likely QB Justin Fields (concussion) will return to the lineup soon. If he does return for Week 4, Fields will need the support of a strong rushing attack — something the Jets haven’t had since Week 1. RB Breece Hall has struggled in the past two games (2.6 yards per carry), so don’t be surprised if Braelon Allen (5.1) sees an increased role. Coach Aaron Glenn noted that reestablishing the ground game is imperative. — Rich Cimini
What we’re hearing on the Dolphins: Dolphins TE Darren Waller (hip) has practiced all week and is expected to make his season debut Monday. His coaches and team have noted the size (6-foot-6, 238 pounds) and physicality he brings to an offense that could use both. “That dude walks around, he looks like a tower over guys,” WR Malik Washington said. “So with his ability to catch the ball, his ability to run routes and his ability to block and be on his assignment, we’ve seen it in practice and stuff. I think adding him to the element, that just adds another playmaker to our team.” — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Stat to know: Both the Dolphins and Jets are 0-3 and have zero takeaways this season. It’s the first season since turnovers became official in 1933 that multiple teams are 0-3 with no takeaways. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill will record seven or more receptions, a season high. No team has faced more zone coverage this season than Miami (74% of the time), but the Jets are a man-heavy team that runs zone only 45% of the time. Over the past few seasons, Hill has had a higher target rate when facing man coverage. — Walder
Injuries: Jets | Dolphins
Fantasy nugget: Hall has had 12-plus touches in every game this season, including a season-high 21 in Week 1. The Jets’ offensive line ranks 14th in run block win rate (72.3%), while Miami’s defensive front sits 29th in run stop win rate (25.8%). The Dolphins have allowed the fifth-most fantasy points per game to running backs. Bills RB James Cook finished with 22 touches and 20.8 points in Week 3. Hall could replicate that performance in Week 4. See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jets are 22-33 ATS in prime-time games since 2005, including 5-13 ATS since 2019. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Dolphins 30, Jets 14
Moody’s pick: Dolphins 30, Jets 26
Walder’s pick: Jets 20, Dolphins 17
FPI prediction: MIA, 54.9% (by an average of 2.1 points)
Matchup must-reads: Jets’ Fields returns to practice, will start if cleared … McDaniel: Dolphins better despite growing pains … Jets hoping for better production from struggling defense … Inside the Dolphins’ attempt to fix their locker room
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ABC | Matchup rating: 56.1/100
ESPN BET: DEN, -7.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Bengals: This is not the week to be facing a strong Denver front, as the Bengals are once again trying to find a solution at right guard. Cincinnati rookie Jalen Rivers finished last week’s game at that spot in place of Dalton Risner, who is likely on the outside of that starting spot. That makes Rivers the fourth player giving it a shot (Lucas Patrick is currently on injured reserve with a calf injury). This is something to watch out for, as the Broncos’ Nik Bonitto is fourth in the league in pass rush win rate (29.8%) as an edge rusher. — Ben Baby
What we’re hearing on the Broncos: The Broncos certainly have emotional Band-Aids from back-to-back losses. On each game’s last play over the past two weeks, the defense couldn’t get the slam-the-door stops it needed. But in reality, the offense should bear the most scrutiny. The team is 27th in third-down conversions, 19th in offensive EPA and QB Bo Nix is 25th in QBR. And last week, the Broncos had seven — you read that right — possessions go for 10 or fewer yards. Four of those went for 1 yard, no gain or negative yardage. Toss in the fact the Broncos are the fourth-most penalized team in the league, and you have the recipe for a team that has yet to find the fast start coach Sean Payton tried to construct. — Jeff Legwold
Stat to know: Entering Week 4, the Broncos lead the league in pass block win rate (75%). The Bengals rank last in that category (45%). — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Bengals RB Chase Brown will rush for at least 75 yards and a touchdown. Brown is overdue for a big production game (he had 3 rushing yards last week), and I think the Bengals’ offense with QB Jake Browning will look better in weeks when it isn’t facing the Vikings’ defense. — Walder
Injuries: Bengals | Broncos
Fantasy nugget: Nix has had a slow start to the season, scoring 20 fantasy points in just one game. The bright spot? His connection with WR Courtland Sutton, who has scored 18-plus fantasy points in two of three games. This duo now gets a Bengals secondary allowing the eighth-most passing yards per game (240.7). See Week 4 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Nix is 8-2 ATS as a favorite. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Broncos 20, Bengals 19
Moody’s pick: Broncos 33, Bengals 17
Walder’s pick: Bengals 23, Broncos 20
FPI prediction: DEN, 72.3% (by an average of 8.9 points)
Matchup must-reads: Without Burrow, Bengals can’t afford Brown’s woes … Three trends to explain the Broncos’ 1-2 start in 2025