The Kansas City Chiefs have been missing standout wideout Xavier Worthy since he dislocated his shoulder in Week 1. After going winless in their first two games, the Chiefs got back in the win column in Week 3, but all eyes are on whether Worthy will be ready to return for their crucial Week 4 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.
Will Xavier Worthy Play vs. the Baltimore Ravens?
The absence of Worthy has been immediately felt. His right shoulder was dislocated after he collided awkwardly with Travis Kelce on the first drive of Week 1 against the Los Angeles Chargers. Without the playmaker, the Chiefs’ passing assault appeared substantially weaker.
Add in Rashee Rice’s six-game suspension, and Patrick Mahomes was left trying to work his magic with a thin group of targets.
However, the good news is Worthy has been steadily recovering, and the Chiefs are optimistic he “will be able to play a limited role for the offense while wearing a small harness” in Week 4, per ESPN’s Nate Taylor. He has been spotted in practice wearing a shoulder brace and full-contact gear, running routes and catching passes with his trademark speed. On Wednesday, he was a full participant in practice.
On Friday, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirmed that Worthy is expected to play against the Ravens.
Although Worthy will be active, his playing time will likely be limited, as the Chiefs continue to exercise caution. In his absence, Tyquan Thornton has stepped up as a reliable target for Mahomes, posting nine receptions for 171 yards and two touchdowns.
Once Worthy is fully healthy, Kansas City’s offense should receive a major boost. Last year, he quickly established himself as one of Mahomes’ most dependable targets, finishing with 59 catches for 638 yards and six touchdowns, capped off by a record-setting Super Bowl performance with 157 yards and two scores in the eventual loss to Philadelphia.
Worthy’s Fantasy Outlook
The Chiefs once again ruled out Worthy for Week 3 with a shoulder injury that cost him all but three snaps in the season opener. However, barring any late setbacks, he is expected to play this weekend.
So, can you trust him in this spot?
The Chiefs did get him two opportunities (one rush and one target) before the injury, and the fact that his replacement went on to see 16 targets against the Chargers points pretty strongly to how this team plans to use their talented receiver in his second season while Rice serves his suspension.
There is, of course, plenty of risk in betting on a loose shoulder, as it could impact how he plays and how Andy Reid deploys him. I have him ranked as more of an “if you need upside” flex play than a surefire option, but this is a pass-centric offense playing against a defense that can shut down the run.
You’re likely playing him if you have him, but don’t be afraid to consider other options if you feel like you’re already favored in your Week 4 matchup.
