Chiefs get positive update on WR Xavier Worthy's injury

A collision with Travis Kelce during the Kansas City Chiefs’ season opener resulted in a dislocated shoulder for Xavier Worthy. It remains unclear how long the second-year wideout will be unavailable, but a positive update emerged on Wednesday.

Head coach Andy Reid said (via The Athletic’s Jesse Newell) that surgery is not being considered at this point. The same is also true of a stint on injured reserve. Provided the Chiefs do not place Worthy on IR, he will remain eligible to return to the lineup at any time (as opposed to a four-game absence being mandated by an IR move).

Reid noted Worthy’s rehab is ongoing, and yesterday he referred to the 2024 first-rounder as “day-to-day.” Missed time in Week 2 could still be in store, but if no surgery is to take place, a return to action relatively soon is likely expected. Worthy’s presence is, of course, particularly valuable early in the campaign while fellow wideout Rashee Rice serves his six-game suspension.

Late in his rookie campaign, Worthy emerged as a key figure in Kansas City’s passing game. Expectations were high entering 2025, and losing the Texas product early in Week 1 dealt a blow to the team’s offense. Marquise Brown will be counted on to operate as a vertical threat moving forward, and ESPN’s Dan Graziano notes Tyquan Thornton will be tasked with taking on Worthy’s role in the starting lineup if necessary. The former Patriots draftee enjoyed a strong training camp and as a pending restricted free agent, he could help his value with at least a short stint on the first-team offense.

Given this latest Worthy update, though, a lengthy period on the sidelines appears unlikely. The Chiefs will take on the Eagles in a Super Bowl rematch during Week 2, and the coming days will offer clarity on whether or not Worthy will be available.