Chiefs HC Andy Reid believes it will be a challenge for rookie WR Jalen Royals to play Week 1, according to Jesse Newell of The Athletic.
What They're Saying
Newell: “Chiefs coach Andy Reid says it doesn’t look like WR Jalen Royals (knee) will be able to make it back for Week 1 vs. the Chargers.”
2025 Fantasy Football Impact
With WRs Rashee Rice and Marquise Brown missing time, Royals saw notable reps with QB Patrick Mahomes and Kansas City's first-team offense this summer. However, it appears he is a long shot to play against the Chargers on Friday.
Between Royals’ absence and Rice’s six-game suspension locked into the first six weeks of the season, the Chiefs wide receiver room will be short-handed. Xavier Worthy should operate as the top target and if his usage mirrors the end of last year, he’s poised for a strong start. From Weeks 7 on (including the playoffs), Worthy averaged seven targets per game and commanded a target share north of 26%.
Worthy should be viewed as a high-upside WR2 for the first six weeks of the season. And for Week 1, the speedy sophomore checks in as the WR14 in the rankings.
