When the Kansas City Chiefs selected receiver Xavier Worthy in the draft, many expected a player whose main asset was his speed. However, Worthy’s versatile performance rookie season soon proved he was more than just a pure deep threat. While initially slow to produce, Worthy gained momentum late in the year, demonstrating his ability to impact the game in multiple ways.
During his first nine games, Worthy surpassed 40 receiving yards only twice, but then he caught fire, racking up at least 40 yards in seven consecutive regular-season games (excluding the final Week 18 contest against the Denver Broncos). His speed, evidenced by an impressive 4.21-second 40-yard dash, was just one facet of his game as he evolved into a reliable and dynamic part of the Chiefs’ offense.
Standout Contributions in the Postseason Highlight Worthy’s Flexibility
Worthy’s skill set truly shined during the playoffs when he amassed 45, 85, and 157 receiving yards, scoring three touchdowns. Beyond stretching the field for deep passes, he proved effective across various routes and plays, becoming an offensive weapon capable of making contested catches and running effective jet sweeps and slants. His ability to excel in multiple roles kept defenses guessing throughout the postseason.
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes quickly recognized Worthy’s expanded skill set, emphasizing that Worthy’s value extends beyond speed alone. Mahomes said,
“The biggest thing I learned is he’s not just fast, he can make plays. You saw that with some of the contested catches that he made towards the end of the season, the Bills game, or even the last catch he had in the Super Bowl, he’s someone that will go up and make a play on the football.”
—Patrick Mahomes, Quarterback
Mahomes also highlighted the increasing opportunities Worthy would receive, especially with key additions in the receiving corps next season:
“So my job is to give him more opportunities even when he’s running with someone and it’s one-on-one, throw the ball, let him go up there and make a play. Adding Hollywood [Brown] and then having Rashee back out there is going to give him more and more opportunities to stretch the field.”
—Patrick Mahomes, Quarterback
Growing Trust From Coaches and Expanded Role Heading into Second Season
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and the coaching staff grew confident in Worthy’s capabilities throughout the season, frequently targeting him. For the last 10 games, he saw at least five targets each outing, solidifying his role in the offense. With fellow receivers Rashee Rice and a healthier Marquise Brown joining the lineup, the Chiefs’ passing attack aims to build on last year’s success.
While Worthy remains a deep-ball threat, his season showed he is comfortable running a variety of routes and creating yards after catch. Whether using quick slants or jet sweeps, his repertoire allows the Chiefs to deploy him all over the field, forcing opposing defenses to account for multiple skill sets.
Looking Ahead: Worthy’s Versatile Talent Poses Major Challenge for Defenses
As Worthy enters his second year, the evidence suggests he is far from a one-dimensional player. His development during his rookie season underscores how he can impact the game beyond just speed, becoming a crucial component for the Chiefs’ aerial strategies. Defenses will need to prepare for a wide array of plays featuring Worthy, making him a significant threat moving forward in the NFL.