The 3-1 Los Angeles Chargers entered their matchup on Sunday with the 2-2 Washington Commanders looking to avenge their Week 4 upset by the New York Giants. Los Angeles appears to be a threat to win the AFC West after the first month of football, coming into Week 5 with a one-game lead over the Denver Broncos for first place in the division.
More News: Cowboys Make NFL History in Win Over Jets
More News: Raiders TE Brock Bowers Has Been Uncooperative Amid New Injury Details
The Chargers have a blend of young receivers, like Ladd McConkey in his second year, and veterans, like Keenan Allen, to help get the best out of star quarterback Justin Herbert. After spending one season with the Chicago Bears in 2024, Allen entered Sunday as the second-leading receiver on the Chargers with 231 yards and three touchdowns on 24 receptions.
Allen was targeted by Herbert early in Week 5, and the wide receiver made history during the first half. Per the NFL, Allen became the fastest player in league history to reach 1,000 career receptions, doing so in 159 games.
Former Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Marvin Harrison held the record previously, earning 1,000 receptions after playing in 167 games. Allen became the just the 16th player in league history to record 1,000 receptions.
The Chargers selected Allen in the third round of the 2013 draft. He’s been an important part of the offense since the franchise was in San Diego. 2024 was the only season Allen was with another team.
Allen hasn’t skipped a beat in his chemistry with Herbert after playing in Chicago last season. The Herbert-Allen connection could play a big role in Los Angeles making a long postseason run under second-year head coach Jim Harbaugh.
For more on the Chargers and the NFL, head to Newsweek Sports.
