KANSAS CITY — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy was forced out of Friday’s season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo after suffering a shoulder injury on the team’s first drive.
The rookie playmaker went down following a collision with tight end Travis Kelce while both ran crossing routes. Trainers immediately attended to Worthy on the sideline and were later seen attempting to reposition his shoulder, sparking fears of a dislocation. Initially listed as questionable to return, the Chiefs ruled him out in the second quarter.
Worthy entered the season as a key offensive weapon, especially with fellow receiver Rashee Rice suspended for the first six games. The 22-year-old had impressed in 2024 with 59 catches, 638 yards, and nine total touchdowns, making him a rising star in the Chiefs’ offense.
His absence now shifts more responsibility onto Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, JuJu Smith-Schuster, and Tyquan Thornton as quarterback Patrick Mahomes looks for reliable targets.
The Chiefs have not yet confirmed the severity of the injury, leaving fans anxiously awaiting further updates.
The 22-year-old rookie was poised to be a key component of Kansas City’s passing attack, stepping into a bigger role in the absence of fellow wide receiver Rashee Rice, who is sidelined for the first six games due to suspension ReutersNFL.com. Worthy’s breakout 2024 rookie season included 59 receptions for 638 yards and nine total touchdowns (six receiving, three rushing)
Worthy’s injury not only sours an already tumultuous start to the Chiefs’ season but also raises pressing questions about how long the speedy wideout—known for his explosive 4.21-second 40-yard dash at the Combine—might be sidelined. The franchise and its fans will be awaiting updated medical reports with cautious optimism.
As former NFL lineman Geoff Schwartz succinctly put it on X: “Worthy hurt on the first drive. Less than ideal.”
