We're just over the first quarter mark of the 2023 NFL regular season and that means some teams are already earning their bye weeks. Week 5 is an early bye, and unless a team is desperate and drowning in early-season bad luck (meaning injuries), then it's likely a source of frustration to have to sit so early.
Still, rest is rest and most teams will take what they're given knowing the rigors of staying healthy and competive for a full NFL season. Already this year we've watched thin rosters stay competitive (that's you, Cardinals) and hyped rosters collapse (that's you, Broncos and Bears). The Colts have surprised, the Bengals have underperformed, and the Dolphins look electric.
For this week, four teams are sitting out with a bye: the Los Angeles Chargers, Cleveland Browns, Seattle Seahawks, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Given that all four teams have plenty of talent and/or are enjoying a solid season so far, it removes a bit of quality from the NFL slate knowing the stars on these teams won't be shining for a week.
Our primary interest here is in the Chargers who are going to be glad to get some rest at least. Several of the team's biggest stars are already ailing, including wide receiver Mike Williams who was lost for the year in Week 3. Among those who were doubtful for this past Sunday include running back Austin Ekeler and safety Derwin James.
Pass rusher Joey Bosa was also hurt and limited in practice and center Corey Linsley has been ill. Given a week away, the Chargers should be hopeful that all of those players, sans Williams, will be ready to go after some time off in early October.
As for the rest of the AFC West, the Kansas City Chiefs will face the Minnesota Vikings, the Las Vegas Raiders will host the Green Bay Packers, while the Denver Broncos will anticipate a visit from the New York Jets.