Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy’s recovery is bringing cautious optimism, as fresh updates from team insiders hint at a possible earlier-than-expected return. While the rookie remains sidelined with a dislocated shoulder, the tone around his progress has shifted in recent days.
According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, the Chiefs are now assessing Worthy’s recovery “week by week” rather than on a strict game-to-game basis. This subtle but significant change suggests the organization is hopeful that the 2024 first-round pick could rejoin the lineup sooner than initially feared.
Xavier Worthy’s injury timeline and current status
Xavier Worthy sustained the injury during Kansas City’s season opener in Brazil against the Los Angeles Chargers. The setback landed him on the short-term injured reserve list, ruling him out for at least four games.
Russini elaborated on the team’s outlook during a recent episode of Scoop City. “The Kansas City way is to keep everything very private, especially injuries. You know how Andy does business there, day to day. They've actually given a little bit more, it's not just day to day. It's more of a week to week and I think the fact that he's being put on short-term IR is good for now,” she explained.
She added, “I think those are one of those situations where they have to wait and see and see how the week progresses as well. But for now, I think that's good.”
Likelihood of return to action
Although Worthy’s chances of featuring in the Week 2 rematch against the Philadelphia Eagles are slim, Russini noted that she “wouldn't be surprised if he suits up for Sunday Night Football against the Giants.”
Importantly, Kansas City does not believe Xavier Worthy will require surgery, eliminating one of the most serious setbacks that could have prolonged his absence. This development significantly boosts his potential to make a mid-season return.
Chiefs face WR depth challenges
Worthy’s absence has come at a difficult time for the Chiefs’ offense. Rising star Rashee Rice is currently serving a six-game suspension and will not return until Week 7. Rookie Jalen Royals also remains sidelined while recovering from a preseason injury.
This leaves the pressure squarely on Marquise “Hollywood” Brown and veteran tight end Travis Kelce to provide reliable targets for quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Brown is expected to stretch defenses with his speed, while Kelce continues to dominate in short-to-intermediate routes.
As a rookie in 2024, Xavier Worthy made an immediate impact, recording 59 receptions for 638 yards and six touchdowns. His blistering speed and deep-threat ability forced defenses to adapt, often freeing up opportunities for teammates. Without him, Kansas City’s passing game has lacked its full explosiveness.
A vital piece for Kansas City’s offense
The Chiefs’ offense has historically thrived on dynamic playmakers, and Worthy’s return will be critical in maintaining that edge. With optimism building and no surgery required, Kansas City is hopeful their electrifying young wideout can rejoin the team sooner rather than later.