KANSAS CITY, Mo. — In a thrilling boost for Chiefs Kingdom, wide receiver Xavier Worthy is poised for a stunning comeback in Week 4, shaking off a nagging shoulder injury that’s sidelined him since the season opener. The speedy rookie sensation, who collided with teammate Travis Kelce in a heartbreaking mishap against the Chargers, fully participated in Wednesday’s practice and is expected to suit up against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium.
The news, first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, has ignited excitement among Kansas City fans hungry for offensive firepower. Worthy, the 28th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Texas, dazzled in his rookie campaign with 59 receptions for 638 yards and six touchdowns, plus three rushing scores. His postseason heroics added three more touchdowns, including two in the Chiefs’ hard-fought Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Missing Weeks 2 and 3 has been tough, but his full practice session signals a clean bill of health.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid couldn’t hide his enthusiasm during Friday’s presser. “Xavier looked fast out there—real fast—and he performed like the stud he is,” Reid said, praising Worthy’s crisp routes and explosive bursts. Last week, Worthy tested the waters with limited practice ahead of the Giants matchup but was wisely held out to avoid risking a setback. This time, with no limitations, the door is wide open for his return. The Chiefs (1-2) desperately need his vertical threat to complement Patrick Mahomes, especially with Rashee Rice still sidelined until Week 7.
The injury stemmed from a chaotic first-drive collision in Week 1’s loss to the Chargers, where Worthy dislocated his right shoulder after tangling with Kelce on crossing routes. Kelce, visibly remorseful, opened up on the “New Heights” podcast with brother Jason: “I felt like s–t for that. I’ll take full accountability—I wasn’t ready, ran into one of my guys, and took him out of the game. It’s frustrating as hell knowing you hurt a teammate like that.” Despite the early-season stumble, Kelce urged the team to rally: “We gotta win up front, stay accountable, start fast, and finish stronger.”
Images from preseason capture Worthy’s electric presence: a close-up of the receiver gazing skyward on the sideline, donning a white cap with a red brim, his Chiefs jersey emblazoned with red and yellow stripes, and an NFL-logoed towel around his neck during the August 9 tilt against the Arizona Cardinals in Glendale. Another shot shows him engaging fans, signing autographs amid a sea of footballs and memorabilia, his smile radiating the charisma that made him a fan favorite.
Worthy’s return couldn’t come at a better time. The Ravens (1-2), led by Lamar Jackson, present a formidable AFC North challenge, but with Worthy back—potentially in a limited role with a harness for protection—the Chiefs’ offense could explode. “He’s leaving all injuries behind,” one teammate quipped in the locker room. As Arrowhead roars, expect Worthy to charge full speed, turning this surprise revival into a game-changing statement for Kansas City’s championship aspirations.