Chiefs rookie Xavier Worthy hints at surprise recovery timeline with cryptic post before Super Bowl rematch

The Kansas City Chiefs received a major boost this week as wide receiver Xavier Worthy returned to practice, less than two weeks after suffering a right shoulder injury in the season opener.

While the 22-year-old rookie is pushing for an early comeback, the team appears set on taking a cautious approach with its rising star.

Xavier Worthy injury update brings optimism for Chiefs

Worthy’s participation in Thursday’s practice surprised many, given the initial concerns surrounding his shoulder. He was injured during Kansas City’s Week 1 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers after colliding with teammate Travis Kelce on the first drive. Fortunately, surgery and injured reserve were avoided, with reports now suggesting he could be back as early as Week 3 against the New York Giants.

Still, Worthy has made it clear he is eager to suit up. On Thursday, he posted a picture of himself in uniform to Instagram with the caption “Free 1,” a message fans interpreted as a plea to play against the Philadelphia Eagles this Sunday. The Chiefs’ medical staff, however, may have the final word.His potential absence is significant. With Rashee Rice serving a six-game suspension, Kansas City can ill afford to lose its top two receivers. Patrick Mahomes needs weapons, and Worthy’s ability to stretch defenses was evident last season when he posted 638 yards and six touchdowns as a rookie.

His playoff surge, highlighted by an electric 157-yard, two-touchdown Super Bowl performance, cemented his status as a game-changer.

Chiefs need Xavier Worthy healthy for long-term success

Even if Worthy sits out this week, the Chiefs know his return will be crucial for the season’s trajectory. The franchise invested heavily when they drafted him in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, and his chemistry with Mahomes already shows signs of blossoming.Kansas City faces the Eagles on Sunday in a Super Bowl LIX rematch. While fans would love to see Worthy back on the field, protecting his health remains the priority. The Chiefs have a long season ahead, and rushing their star receiver could risk more than it rewards. For now, optimism remains—Worthy looks closer than anyone expected to being back in action.Also Read: “Yelling at each other”: Rob Gronkowski claims Chiefs are falling apart after Eagles expose Patrick Mahomes’ weaknesses