As expected, the Kansas City Chiefs will be without second-year pro Xavier Worthy in their home opener vs. the Philadelphia Eagles.
However, it seems like he won't be out for much longer. Per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, there's a strong chance that he will be able to suit up next week, although he will have to wear some protection to avoid re-aggravating the injury.
Xavier Worthy is 'Looking Good' to Return in Week 3
"My understanding is that Worthy is looking good to play next week for the Chiefs, and if he does so, he will do it with a fully torn labrum and a harness," Rapoport said Sunday morning. "It sounds crazy, but it is something several NFL players do."
This is great news, considering that Rashee Rice will be ineligible to play for the first six weeks for the season. Worthy was expected to be at the top of the depth chart in Rice's absence. Unfortunately, he failed to make an impact in the season opener after that collision with Kelce took him out early in the game.
That being said, the former Longhorns standout made a surprise return to practice this week, which immediately moved up his potential return timeline. Though Kansas City will have to get by without him against Philly, Worthy seems primed to take the field again in Week 3 versus the New York Giants. At least taking some reps in that content would have him ready for a pivotal Week 4 matchup with the Baltimore Ravens.
Worthy logged the fastest 40-yard dash time in NFL Scouting Combine history (4.21) in 2024, and he flashed glimpses of strong play as a rookie. He had some solid designed runs while showcasing his speed and big-play potential at times.
However, at just 172 pounds, there were some concerns about his lanky frame and how it would hold up against more physical, stronger, and tougher defensive players in the pros. Ironically, it took one of his own teammates to get him off the field.
In his absence, the Chiefs will most likely lean heavily on Marquise 'Hollywood' Brown, who turned 16 targets and 10 receptions into just 99 yards in the season opener. Things won't get much easier against the Eagles, but given their questions at cornerback opposite Quinyon Mitchell, Brown could have a better performance in Week 2.