Kansas City Chiefs rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy wasted no time in making a name for himself in his NFL debut. Known for his blazing speed, Worthy quickly delivered on the hype, taking an end-around for 21 yards and scoring a touchdown to tie the game against the Baltimore Ravens at 7-7. Remarkably, this electrifying play came on the very first touch of Worthy’s professional career, immediately demonstrating his value to the team.
Xavier Worthy, a rookie receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs, impressed in his NFL debut, scoring two touchdowns in a win over the Baltimore Ravens.
Worthy’s performance may set him up for a promising season as he aims for the AFC… https://t.co/1SGxdYaJKb
— QWIKET NFL (@qwiket_nfl) September 6, 2024
Worthy’s selection by the Chiefs in the draft was highly anticipated. Kansas City traded up to secure the wideout with the 28th overall pick, driven by his exceptional speed showcased at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he ran an astonishing 4.21-second 40-yard dash. This time was one of the fastest ever recorded at the combine, placing him in elite company among NFL prospects. His speed has been a highly coveted asset, and the Chiefs saw him as a perfect fit for their dynamic offense led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
The Chiefs’ drive also saw contributions from second-year receiver Rashee Rice, who had a productive start to the season. Rice caught Mahomes’ first pass of the season, an 11-yard gain that helped build momentum. He followed that up with a critical 16-yard reception on a third-and-6, keeping the drive alive and setting up Worthy’s scoring run. Adding to the gain, a horse-collar tackle penalty on Baltimore tacked on an extra 15 yards, putting Kansas City in excellent field position. Mahomes, ever the efficient signal-caller, started his 2023 campaign flawlessly, going 2-for-2 for 27 yards on the opening drive.
Worthy’s quick impact is a testament to the Chiefs’ strategic offseason moves, prioritizing speed and versatility on offense. His ability to break open defenses on both passing plays and gadget runs like the one that led to his touchdown makes him a valuable weapon in Kansas City’s high-powered offense. With Mahomes at the helm and a supporting cast filled with talent, Worthy is expected to make many more explosive plays throughout the season.
On the defensive side of the ball, Kansas City faced an early scare when defensive end Malik Herring and cornerback Trent McDuffie collided during a tackle attempt. Both players were briefly taken off the field and checked for concussions. Fortunately for the Chiefs, both Herring and McDuffie were cleared to return to action after the medical team found no signs of serious injury.
The Kansas City Chiefs kicked off their 2024 season against the Baltimore Ravens, showcasing their potent offense with rookie Xavier Worthy making an explosive debut.
Worthy scored two touchdowns, highlighted by a 21-yard sprint… https://t.co/aPvbaDDBAn
— QWIKET NFL (@qwiket_nfl) September 6, 2024
The combination of Worthy’s explosive play, Rice’s reliable hands, and Mahomes’ early efficiency set the tone for what looks to be another exciting season for the Chiefs. The addition of a player like Worthy, whose speed adds another layer to an already dynamic offense, could make Kansas City even more dangerous as they look to continue their dominance in the AFC.
Key Points:
i. Xavier Worthy made an instant impact in his NFL debut, scoring a 21-yard touchdown on his first professional touch.
ii. Worthy was selected 28th overall in the draft after posting an incredible 4.21-second 40-yard dash at the scouting combine.
iii. Second-year receiver Rashee Rice also contributed with two crucial catches, including a 16-yard reception, helping to set up Worthy’s touchdown.
iv. Patrick Mahomes started the season strong, completing his first two passes for 27 yards during the drive.
v. Chiefs defenders Malik Herring and Trent McDuffie were checked for concussions after a collision but were cleared to return to the game.
TL Holcomb – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
