The Kansas City Chiefs have been without second-year wide receiver Xavier Worthy since a collision with tight end Travis Kelce in Week 1 gave him a dislocated shoulder.
With fellow wide receiver Rashee Rice serving a six-game suspension, Worthy was expected to be a focal point in the offense and a main target for quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
However, there’s been hope that he will be available to play against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 4. On Wednesday, ESPN’s senior NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that he was a full participant during the team’s practice, “putting him on track to play Sunday.”
On Thursday, several Chiefs coaches commented on Worthy’s health and ability to come back. One being wide receiver coach Connor Embree, who nearly confirmed the wide receiver will be available against the Ravens.
“He’s ready to go,” Embree said. “He played three snaps in the first game and has been out since, so he’s ready to go.”
Through the first three weeks of the season, Kansas City’s offense has been far from dominant, ranking 17th in total yards per game (315.7) and tied for 21st in points per game (20).
Inserting Worthy, who last year hauled in 59 receptions, 638 yards and six touchdowns on 98 targets, could be the exact spark that the unit needs.
Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy also made it clear the wide receiver is doing well, saying, “Well, he’s such a big part of this offense. He’s been so instrumental coming back this second year, then all of the sudden that happens in Week 1. . . He’s doing really well, running around, and looks good out there.”
His return may come at a crucial time as well, with Kansas City looking to avoid a 1-3 start to the season. The return of Worthy could be instrumental in helping them get back on track this season.