Four weeks into the 2026 NFL season, the standings are beginning to reveal which teams are building something special—and which are already facing serious questions.
Week 4 delivered a major AFC East upset, an important AFC North rivalry result, another impressive international performance, and a spectacular Monday Night Football finale.
The New England Patriots stunned the Buffalo Bills on the road. The Cleveland Browns defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers to move to the top of their division. And despite several competitive games, the Kansas City Chiefs, San Francisco 49ers, and Minnesota Vikings all preserved their perfect records.
Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons closed the week with a commanding 45–24 victory over the New Orleans Saints.
This NFL 2026 Week 4 recap covers the biggest games, surprising results, standout performances, all 16 final scores, and the key takeaways shaping the young season.
NFL 2026 Week 4 Recap: At a Glance
Week 4 featured important divisional battles, unexpected results, and increasing pressure on teams that entered the season with playoff ambitions.
- Biggest Upset: New England Patriots 29–26 Buffalo Bills.
- Major Divisional Result: Cleveland Browns 27–24 Pittsburgh Steelers.
- Monday Night Statement: Atlanta Falcons 45–24 New Orleans Saints.
- Unbeaten Contenders: Chiefs, 49ers, and Vikings improve to 4–0.
- International Spotlight: Indianapolis Colts 30–13 Washington Commanders in London.
- Sunday Night Drama: Carolina Panthers 32–26 Detroit Lions.
- Quarterback Injury Concern: Lamar Jackson exits Baltimore’s victory against Tennessee.
The most significant development was not simply that several favorites won.
It was that the gap between undefeated teams and everyone else became clearer, while multiple divisions experienced important changes in momentum.
1. New England Patriots 29–26 Buffalo Bills: The AFC East’s Biggest Surprise
The Buffalo Bills entered Week 4 with a perfect 3–0 record.
After surviving five turnovers against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 3, Buffalo hoped to produce a cleaner performance against New England.
Instead, the Patriots delivered one of the weekend’s biggest upsets.
New England defeated Buffalo 29–26, handing the Bills their first loss of the season.
Drake Maye Delivers Under Pressure
Patriots quarterback Drake Maye completed 22 of 37 passes for 269 yards and three touchdowns.
He also led the team with 54 rushing yards.
His performance was not flawless. New England committed costly mistakes early, and Maye had to overcome difficult moments.
But in the fourth quarter, he made the plays that mattered most.
A late touchdown pass to Efton Chism III helped put New England ahead, and Maye subsequently connected with Hunter Henry for a critical first down that prevented Buffalo from getting another possession.
Why Buffalo’s Loss Matters
The Bills remain a serious AFC contender, but two consecutive games featuring significant mistakes have raised questions about consistency.
Buffalo survived its turnover-heavy performance against the Chargers. It could not escape against New England.
The result also gave the Patriots an important divisional victory and improved their record to 2–2.
Key takeaway: New England demonstrated resilience in a difficult road environment, while Buffalo learned that a perfect record can disappear quickly when execution breaks down.
2. Cleveland Browns 27–24 Pittsburgh Steelers: A Rivalry Win Changes the AFC North
Week 4 opened with an important AFC North matchup on Thursday Night Football.
The Cleveland Browns defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 27–24.
The result improved Cleveland to 3–1 and gave the Browns an early advantage in the division race.
Deshaun Watson Engineers the Winning Drive
Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson completed 24 of 33 passes for 268 yards and a touchdown.
His performance included several important drives, but the decisive moment came late.
Cleveland moved into field-goal range, allowing Andre Szmyt to attempt a 56-yard kick.
Szmyt converted, giving the Browns a late lead.
Grant Delpit then intercepted Aaron Rodgers to secure the result.
The Importance of an Early Divisional Victory
AFC North games are often physical, competitive, and consequential.
Cleveland’s victory mattered because the division entered Week 4 with several teams closely grouped in the standings.
The Browns had now shown they could win tight games, an especially important trait in a division where playoff positions may depend on head-to-head records.
Pittsburgh, meanwhile, suffered a frustrating defeat despite producing enough offense to remain competitive.
Rodgers finished with 299 passing yards and three touchdowns, but his late interception ended the Steelers’ final opportunity.
Key takeaway: Cleveland’s ability to execute in decisive moments made the Browns one of the early AFC North stories.
3. Kansas City Chiefs 30–27 Las Vegas Raiders: Another Test Passed
Kansas City entered Week 4 unbeaten.
So did Las Vegas.
Their AFC West matchup therefore carried early divisional significance.
The Chiefs emerged with a 30–27 victory, improving to 4–0 and handing the Raiders their first defeat.
Kenneth Walker III Powers the Chiefs
Running back Kenneth Walker III rushed for 177 yards, providing a major contribution to Kansas City’s offense.
His production demonstrated that the Chiefs can win without relying exclusively on Patrick Mahomes’ passing.
The Raiders were competitive throughout the game, with quarterback Kirk Cousins throwing for 365 yards.
However, Kansas City found enough answers to preserve its undefeated record.
Why Balance Matters for the Chiefs
A strong running game can reduce the burden on a quarterback and create more manageable offensive situations.
It can also help control possession and limit opportunities for an opposing offense.
Kansas City’s ability to win another close game suggested that the team was developing different ways to succeed.
Key takeaway: The Chiefs remained perfect, with their running game offering another weapon in the AFC West race.
4. San Francisco 49ers 24–14 Denver Broncos: Four Wins, No Losses
The San Francisco 49ers continued their perfect start with a 24–14 victory over Denver.
The win moved San Francisco to 4–0.
After beginning the season with victories over the Rams, Dolphins, and Cardinals, the 49ers faced another test against a competitive Broncos team.
San Francisco Maintains Its Consistency
Brock Purdy threw for 218 yards, while Christian McCaffrey contributed to the running game.
The 49ers did not need a spectacular offensive performance to secure the victory.
Instead, they combined timely scoring with enough defensive discipline to limit Denver to 14 points.
Why a 4–0 Start Matters
An undefeated start creates an important advantage in the playoff race.
But it also increases expectations.
San Francisco has shown offensive efficiency, the ability to win close contests, and defensive resilience during its first four games.
The question is whether those strengths can remain consistent as the schedule becomes more demanding.
Key takeaway: San Francisco continues to look like one of the NFC’s most complete early-season contenders.
5. Minnesota Vikings 15–10 Miami Dolphins: Winning Without an Offensive Explosion
Not every undefeated team wins with impressive scoring numbers.
Minnesota demonstrated that again in Week 4.
The Vikings defeated the Miami Dolphins 15–10, improving to 4–0.
Defense Makes the Difference
The Vikings have already experienced several different types of games this season.
They scored 39 points against Green Bay in Week 1, held Chicago to three points in Week 2, and defeated Tampa Bay in a competitive Week 3 contest.
Against Miami, Minnesota again relied on a controlled, lower-scoring performance.
T.J. Hockenson contributed 119 receiving yards, while Minnesota limited Miami to ten points.
Minnesota’s Biggest Strength
The Vikings’ unbeaten record is particularly interesting because it has not depended on consistently high-scoring games.
They have demonstrated the ability to adapt to different opponents and win through different combinations of offense and defense.
That flexibility can be valuable as the season progresses.
However, winning repeatedly by narrow margins also leaves little room for error.
Key takeaway: Minnesota’s defense and resilience have been central to its perfect start.
6. Indianapolis Colts 30–13 Washington Commanders: Jonathan Taylor Shines in London
The NFL’s international schedule continued in Week 4, with Indianapolis facing Washington in London.
The Colts won 30–13.
Jonathan Taylor Takes Control
Running back Jonathan Taylor rushed for 95 yards and two touchdowns.
His performance helped Indianapolis overcome an inconsistent start and establish control during the second half.
Quarterback Daniel Jones experienced difficulties early, including turnovers, but the Colts eventually found stability through their running game.
Washington’s Quarterback Problems Continue
The Commanders entered the game without injured starter Jayden Daniels.
Backup Marcus Mariota then aggravated a knee injury, forcing rookie Athan Kaliakmanis into the game.
Washington showed occasional offensive promise, but the changes at quarterback made sustained production difficult.
The Colts improved to 2–2, while Washington fell to 1–3.
The Bigger Picture
The result demonstrated the importance of having a dependable running game when a team’s passing offense is struggling.
It also highlighted the challenges teams face when multiple quarterbacks become unavailable.
Key takeaway: Jonathan Taylor gave Indianapolis a reliable offensive foundation, while injuries continued to complicate Washington’s season.
7. Atlanta Falcons 45–24 New Orleans Saints: A Monday Night Statement
Week 4 ended with an emphatic performance from the Atlanta Falcons.
Atlanta defeated New Orleans 45–24 on Monday Night Football.
The victory improved the Falcons to 2–2, while the Saints fell to 1–3.
Bijan Robinson Dominates
Running back Bijan Robinson produced one of the standout performances of the week.
He rushed for 145 yards and two touchdowns on 19 carries.
His performance included an explosive 59-yard touchdown run.
Robinson’s combination of speed, vision, and acceleration made him difficult for New Orleans to contain.
Brian Robinson Also Delivers
Atlanta’s running attack was not limited to one player.
Brian Robinson contributed three rushing touchdowns, giving the Falcons a powerful combination in the backfield.
The duo helped Atlanta control the game and consistently turn offensive opportunities into points.
What the Victory Means
Atlanta had experienced mixed results during the opening three weeks.
The dominant victory over a divisional rival offered an encouraging response.
For New Orleans, allowing 45 points at home raised significant defensive concerns.
Key takeaway: Atlanta’s rushing attack has the potential to become one of the most difficult matchups in the NFC South.
8. Carolina Panthers 32–26 Detroit Lions: Another Surprise in Prime Time
Carolina added another interesting chapter to its unpredictable early season with a 32–26 victory over Detroit.
The Panthers had suffered a 59–37 defeat against Chicago in Week 1 before responding with a 34–3 win against Atlanta.
Now they produced another important victory, this time against the Lions.
Tetairoa McMillan’s Breakout Performance
Wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan finished with 192 receiving yards.
His performance provided Carolina with a major offensive advantage and helped the Panthers generate explosive plays.
Running back Chuba Hubbard added 122 rushing yards.
Together, they gave Carolina a more balanced offensive approach.
Detroit’s Frustrating Loss
Lions quarterback Jared Goff threw for 412 yards, but Detroit still finished on the losing side.
The result illustrated an important point: impressive passing statistics do not guarantee victory.
A team must also turn opportunities into points while limiting defensive breakdowns.
Key takeaway: Carolina’s offensive playmakers produced a statement win, while Detroit struggled to convert substantial yardage into a victory.
9. Quarterback Injuries Create New Questions
Week 4 also featured significant injury concerns.
Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson suffered an ankle injury during the Ravens’ 24–18 victory over Tennessee.
He had thrown for 222 yards and two touchdowns before leaving the game.
Backup Tyler Huntley completed the game, but Baltimore’s offense was less productive after Jackson’s departure.
Washington also faced further quarterback uncertainty following Marcus Mariota’s injury in London.
These developments reinforced one of the season’s recurring lessons.
Even teams with strong starting lineups can face major challenges when their quarterbacks become unavailable.
Key takeaway: Quarterback depth and health could become decisive factors in the playoff race.
NFL 2026 Week 4: Full Results
All 16 final scores from October 1–5, 2026:
| Matchup | Final Score |
|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Steelers at Cleveland Browns | Browns 27–24 |
| Indianapolis Colts vs. Washington Commanders (London) | Colts 30–13 |
| Tennessee Titans at Baltimore Ravens | Ravens 24–18 |
| New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills | Patriots 29–26 |
| New York Jets at Chicago Bears | Bears 23–12 |
| Jacksonville Jaguars at Cincinnati Bengals | Jaguars 22–17 |
| Dallas Cowboys at Houston Texans | Cowboys 34–30 |
| Arizona Cardinals at New York Giants | Giants 36–24 |
| Los Angeles Rams at Philadelphia Eagles | Rams 24–20 |
| Green Bay Packers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Packers 17–14 |
| Miami Dolphins at Minnesota Vikings | Vikings 15–10 |
| Kansas City Chiefs at Las Vegas Raiders | Chiefs 30–27 |
| Los Angeles Chargers at Seattle Seahawks | Seahawks 30–23 |
| Denver Broncos at San Francisco 49ers | 49ers 24–14 |
| Detroit Lions at Carolina Panthers | Panthers 32–26 |
| Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints | Falcons 45–24 |
Five Biggest Takeaways From NFL Week 4
1. Only Three Unbeaten Teams Remain
The Chiefs, 49ers, and Vikings all reached 4–0.
Buffalo and Las Vegas suffered their first defeats.
Each undefeated team has demonstrated different strengths.
Kansas City has shown an ability to win close games.
San Francisco has combined offensive efficiency with balanced performances.
Minnesota has relied on defensive consistency and adaptability.
The longer these streaks continue, the more pressure each team will face.
2. New England Is Making the AFC East More Competitive
The Patriots’ victory over Buffalo was among the week’s most important results.
It demonstrated that the Bills could be beaten and prevented New England from falling further behind in the division race.
Drake Maye’s performance also provided an encouraging sign for the Patriots’ offense.
3. Cleveland Is Becoming a Serious AFC North Story
The Browns’ victory over Pittsburgh was their third win of the season.
More importantly, it came against a direct divisional rival.
In a competitive AFC North, those results can become especially important when playoff positions are decided.
4. Running Backs Had a Major Week
Several important offensive performances came from the ground game.
Bijan Robinson rushed for 145 yards, Kenneth Walker III gained 177, and Jonathan Taylor scored twice in London.
These performances demonstrated that running backs remain influential even in a league frequently dominated by quarterback headlines.
A strong running game can improve offensive balance, reduce pressure on quarterbacks, and help teams control difficult matchups.
5. Injuries Continue to Shape Team Expectations
Lamar Jackson’s ankle injury and Washington’s ongoing quarterback problems were reminders that roster depth matters.
A strong starting quarterback can elevate an entire offense.
Losing that player—even temporarily—can change how a team approaches its next game.
Health and availability will remain important variables as the season progresses.
What Should Fans Watch in Week 5?
Several questions will carry into the next week.
Can Kansas City remain unbeaten? The Chiefs have demonstrated different ways to win, but another close game could test their execution.
Will San Francisco continue its perfect start? The 49ers have been consistently productive, though stronger opponents may challenge their defensive depth.
Can Minnesota keep winning defensive battles? The Vikings have shown resilience, but a more explosive opposing offense could create a different challenge.
How will Buffalo respond to its first defeat? The Bills need to address mistakes that have made recent games unnecessarily difficult.
Can New England build on its upset? The Patriots’ win over Buffalo was impressive, but consecutive strong performances would be more meaningful.
What is Lamar Jackson’s status? Baltimore’s immediate prospects could depend on the availability of its starting quarterback.
Final Thoughts
The fourth week of the 2026 NFL season showed how quickly the league’s competitive picture can change.
Buffalo and Las Vegas lost their undefeated records, while Kansas City, San Francisco, and Minnesota remained perfect.
New England earned a major AFC East victory. Cleveland strengthened its position in the AFC North. Atlanta produced a spectacular Monday Night Football performance, and Carolina continued to surprise.
Meanwhile, quarterback injuries created new uncertainty for teams trying to maintain momentum.
Week 4 was not just about which teams won. It was about which teams proved they could adapt, recover, and remain competitive under pressure.
One month into the season, the early contenders are emerging.
But the NFL still has plenty of surprises ahead.
Sources and Further Reading
- NFL — Official 2026 Week 4 Scores
- NFL — 2026 Week 4 Schedule and Results
- NFL — What We Learned From Sunday’s Week 4 Games
- NFL — Browns vs. Steelers: Thursday Night Football
- NFL — Falcons vs. Saints: Monday Night Football
Last reviewed: October 19, 2026. Results cover all 16 Week 4 games played October 1–5, 2026.