Xavier Worthy injury update: Will Chiefs WR return after the shoulder scare vs. Chargers?

Kansas City Chiefs fans were jolted in the season opener, against the Los Angeles Chargers in Brazil, when rising star wide receiver Xavier Worthy left the game early with a shoulder injury following a mid-play collision with teammate Travis Kelce. In a collision with teammate Travis Kelce on just the third offensive play, Worthy was visibly in pain and was soon ruled out of the game.The impact appeared severe, forcing Worthy, who was expected to step up with Rashee Rice suspended, to exit the field quickly.With key receiver Rashee Rice already suspended, Worthy’s absence creates a significant challenge for the Chiefs’ offense. And as no immediate return is expected, the question on everyone’s mind is: How long could his recovery take?

What happened

In the very first quarter of the Chiefs’ game against the Chargers, Worthy collided with Travis Kelce during a crossing route.

The impact struck his right shoulder, and he promptly walked to the sidelines, appearing to favor the arm, before being taken to the locker room for imaging. Although initially listed as questionable to return, he was officially ruled out early in the second quarter.This injury comes at an inopportune time, as Rashee Rice remains suspended, leaving the Chiefs thinner at wide receiver than expected heading into the new season.

How long do shoulder injuries typically last?

While the Chiefs have not specified Worthy’s injury severity, we can look to general recovery timelines for similar shoulder injuries in contact sports:For a shoulder dislocation without surgery, non-athletes may recover within 4 to 6 weeks, given proper immobilization and physical therapy. In-season athletes may return in as little as 2 to 3 weeks, though high rates of recurrent instability are common, especially if healing isn’t complete. If surgery is required, expecting a longer timeline is prudent. A sling is typically worn for about 6 weeks, with full recovery taking 5 to 6 months. According to the NHS, uncomplicated shoulder dislocations may take up to 12 weeks to recover, and sports-specific returns may require up to 16 weeks.

What does this mean for Worthy’s return?

Given that Worthy’s shoulder is being evaluated for dislocation, and considering he was immediately ruled out for the game, doctors will likely follow a step-by-step protocol:Initial imaging and evaluationImmobilization (possibly with a sling)Guided physical therapy to restore strength, mobility, and stabilityGradual return to football drillsIf Worthy’s injury is minor and non-surgical, a 4-6 week timeline seems plausible, but that could stretch into 12 weeks if more serious, such as ligament damage or required surgery.

Football players face extra risk of reinjury, especially if returning too quickly.

The impact on the Chiefs’ offense

Worthy emerged as a reliable second-year target last season, posting 59 receptions, 638 yards, and six receiving touchdowns, making his sudden exit a serious blow. With Worthy and Rice both unavailable, the Chiefs will likely rely more heavily on Hollywood Brown, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Tyquan Thornton, and tight end Travis Kelce to fill the void.

What’s ahead

Worthy will likely need a few more weeks of rest and therapy. Expect an initial recovery window of 2–4 weeks, depending on severity. The team will report further updates as imaging and evaluations return more clarity.