As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers, rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy is showing signs of progress in his transition to the NFL. Speaking candidly to reporters, Worthy opened up about the challenges of adapting to the league, the lessons he’s learned, and his recent highlights on the field.
Worthy’s biggest adjustment has been refining his communication with teammates and developing chemistry on the field.
“Man, it’s just the communication aspect,” Worthy said. “I’m a young player, first time playing together, so it’s just building that chemistry.”
These finer points have been a focus in practice, particularly when it comes to ensuring sideline catches are in-bounds. However, Worthy admitted that these skills can’t be fully duplicated in practice.
“You can’t replicate it,” he explained. “It’s just something that you gotta, like, learn over time. It’s a hard thing to learn in the moment, but, I mean, it’s all gonna be worth it.”
Worthy also credits the team’s veterans for their guidance as he navigates the demands of his rookie season.
“They’re the ones that told me it’s gonna come over time,” he shared. “Everybody can tell you, but it’s different in the heat of the moment.”
The rookie showcased his potential during a recent drive that ended with a touchdown. Reflecting on that stretch, Worthy highlighted how his comfort and understanding of the game are evolving.
“I feel like I’m starting to, like, really get more comfortable, get a better feel for the game,” he said. “Understanding more leverage, more coverage. So, I just feel like that’s just me showing my growth.”
When asked if the grind of the NFL has felt more demanding than his time at Texas, Worthy shrugged it off.
“Nah, I love football, so it’s just something I enjoy doing,” he said. “It doesn’t feel like a job. I just love playing the game.”
Worthy also shared a lighthearted moment regarding a Chiefs play inspired by his time playing college football.
“Man, I seen them put it in,” he said. “They were showing our play in the media. So, when they showed it in the media, I already knew I was gonna run it. It was just cool just to have that run.”
“See who can get more yards,” smiled the rookie.”
Worthy also took a moment to shout out former Texas teammate Jonathan Brooks, who is recovering from an injury but will be suiting up this week.
“Oh, yeah, that’s my guy,” Worthy said. “He had a hell of a college career. He just got, unfortunately, hurt, so I feel like if we had him on that run in college, it would have probably been different. But just to see him back out there and doing things he’s doing, I’m happy for him.”
As the Chiefs gear up for Sunday’s game, Worthy is proving he’s not just another rookie trying to find his way; he’s a rising talent already making an impact.