Xavier Worthy hoped his season would start differently. In the opening game against the Chargers, Worthy went down with a shoulder injury, which cost him the rest of the contest and two more games after that. Now their young receiver is in line to return on Sunday against the Ravens. It’s a crucial game with both of the would-be contenders at 1-2 through three weeks. With Worthy healthy, does this make him a must-start in fantasy football on Sunday?
Analysis
There’s nothing to glean from Week 1 since Worthy played only three snaps and was injured trying to secure his only target. For all intents and purposes, this is his season debut. But we do have a bit more insight into how this 2025 Chiefs passing attack will look.
Last season, Worthy finished second on the team in targets and receptions behind Travis Kelce. Injuries to Rashee Rice and Hollywood Brown cleared the way for Worthy to take over as the top WR target in the group. Now a few things have changed. Rice remains out, suspended for three more games. Brown is back and leads the team in targets. Newcomer Tyquan Thornton has settled in as the second option. But most surprising is the decline of Travis Kelce.
Last year was the lowest receiving output for Kelce’s career in a full season. Despite Brown and Rice missing significant time, he started to look his age. It’s becoming clear he cannot be a focal point of their passing attack. Thornton has looked strong and Brown finally showcases his potential, but there is opportunity for Worthy to rocket to the top of the pecking order.
The verdict
What happens when Rice returns is anyone’s guess. But with the Chiefs’ run game going nowhere, they’ll have to air the ball out if they hope to beat the high-powered Ravens offense. With Baltimore’s defense struggling more than expected, Worthy is a must-start in all formats as he asserts himself as their No. 1 weapon in the pass game.
