Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

NFL Announces Punishment for Chiefs WR Xavier Worthy

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Oct 25, 2025 4:17 PM ET

Xavier Worthy and the Kansas City Chiefs earned their fourth win of the 2025 NFL season in Week 7, improving to 4-3 with a 31-0 blowout victory over Geno Smith and the Las Vegas Raiders. With Rashee Rice back in the lineup, Worthy took on a smaller role in the win over Kansas City's AFC West rival, finishing with three catches for 35 yards and 13 more yards on the ground.

With 10 minutes, 10 seconds remaining in the third quarter, Patrick Mahomes connected with Worthy for a 12-yard first down, drawing a defensive holding penalty on Las Vegas cornerback Darnay Holmes in the process. After the play, Worthy celebrated by staring down the defender, but no taunting penalty was called. Running back Isiah Pacheco would go on to score a touchdown on the drive, increasing Kansas City's lead to 28-0.

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy (1) against the Philadelphia EaglesMark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

While no flag was thrown for taunting during the game, the NFL still announced Worthy had been fined $11,593 for the incident. A second offense this season could raise the fine to $17,389.

Worthy was one of three players to receive a fine for taunting in Week 7. Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens was fined $11,593 for his actions in a win over the Washington Commanders, while Cowboys offensive lineman Brock Hoffman was charged $6,111. Raiders safety Isaiah Pola-Mao was also fined $17,278 for a "use of the helmet" against the Chiefs.

Xavier Worthy, clear and obvious taunting. Doesn’t apply to the Chiefs per usual. ⁦⁦@NFL⁩ is a joke. pic.twitter.com/abyKfZrIJy
— 〽️att Waugh (@MattWaugh7) October 19, 2025

Worthy is also not the only player on Kansas City to be hit with a fine after a celebration. Kareem Hunt was charged $8,172 for a "violent gesture" in Week 3, while Travis Kelce was fined $14,491 for "obscene gestures" in Week 2.

Worthy and the Chiefs will be back in action in Week 8, facing the Washington Commanders (3-4) on "Monday Night Football" at 8:15 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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