The Kansas City Chiefs are just over three weeks away from training camp, truly kicking off the start of the 2026 season. With this in mind, it's fair to look at the team's current depth chart and consider who cannot afford to stumble out of the gate. An obvious choice is third-year receiver Xavier Worthy, who faces pressure both from the Chiefs and from his draft pedigree as a former first-round selection to finally put together a full season close to WR1 production. Everything about Kansas City's 2026 offseason has been a ringing endorsement of Worthy's ability to take a huge leap in production.
Hollywood Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster both walked away in free agency, with the Chiefs opting not to make one free agency addition of note. Rashee Rice has yet again found offseason trouble, pointing to the fact that there is zero ability to rely on him despite the incredible talent level shown and the clear on-field chemistry between Rice and Mahomes.
Tyquan Thornton is the team's third option, re-signing on a two-year deal that rewarded a breakout season that saw him produce more in his one season in KC than his first three years combined. This all adds up to point out just what a gamble the Chiefs are taking with both Thornton and Rice.
Worthy needs to be a reliable presence, with training camp serving as the start of what will be a defining season. Last year's stumbles can be blamed on injuries and an offense that was bland and lacked creativity. However, any level of struggles or injuries from Worthy in camp will be extremely noteworthy and could spark a desperation move.
Chiefs cannot afford for Xavier Worthy to struggle coming into training camp
Worthy needs to show off his chemistry with Patrick Mahomes and steady the expectations of a fanbase that has obvious reason for concern around the position. If the receiver comes out strong and looks ready to take a leap in production, the concerns around the position are going to quiet down based on this potential.
The flip side of this is pointing out that any stumbles from Worthy or a slow start could invite a meaningful change. One that would potentially leave Rice and a new addition as the primary weapons at the position, and take away the opportunity for Worthy to fight for the primary receiver role.
With this in mind, it is undeniably clear that the Chiefs need a hot start from the Texas product, one that puts fans at ease and gives a reason to buy into the current receiver depth chart. Without Worthy taking his leap, the Chiefs' standing at receiver becomes what many fear it might, and that is a net negative.
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