Once doubted for his small stature, he has now become a cornerstone of the Chiefs' offense.
St. Joseph, MO – July 21, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs’ 2024 rookie class had its skeptics, but Xavier Worthy, the lightning-fast wide receiver, has turned doubters into believers. Drafted 28th overall after a trade-up with the Buffalo Bills, the Texas speedster faced questions about his slight 165-pound frame and ability to handle physical NFL corners. Yet, as training camp kicks off, Worthy stands tall as a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offense, proving he’s here to stay in Chiefs Kingdom.
Worthy’s 2024 season was a rollercoaster that ended in triumph. Thrust into a starting role after injuries to Marquise Brown and Rashee Rice, he started 13 games, hauling in 59 receptions for 638 yards and nine total touchdowns, per Pro-Football-Reference. His record-breaking 4.21-second 40-yard dash at the 2024 NFL Combine translated to game-changing plays, including a 54-yard touchdown against the Ravens in Week 1. “People said I was too small, too raw,” Worthy posted on X via @fanhub_nfl. “I just let my game do the talking.”
His impact went beyond stats. Worthy’s vertical speed stretched defenses, opening underneath routes for Travis Kelce and DeAndre Hopkins, per Chiefs.com. Despite early struggles—six of 13 catchable deep targets caught, per PFF—his ability to get open and his electric yards-after-catch (YAC) made him a Patrick Mahomes favorite. He earned the Mack Lee Hill Award as the Chiefs’ top rookie, voted by teammates, cementing his locker-room respect.
Skeptics pointed to Worthy’s size and a C-minus draft class grade from NFL.com, but his work ethic silenced critics. “He’s a dog out there,” Mahomes said, per ESPN. “He’s not just fast—he’s learning to be a complete receiver.” Fans on X, like @ChiefsHype, agree: “Worthy’s our WR1 future! Speed kills!” As the Chiefs eye a Super Bowl return, Worthy’s growth is key. With Jalen Royals and veterans like Tyquan Thornton, he’s part of a revamped receiving corps ready to shine.
From doubted rookie to offensive pillar, Worthy’s journey embodies the Chiefs’ relentless drive. Will he lead them to Super Bowl LX? Stay tuned to ESPN as camp unfolds.
