Travis Kelce Takes Blame for Xavier Worthy's Injury in Chiefs' Opener

 Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is taking full responsibility for the early-game collision that resulted in a dislocated shoulder for his teammate, wide receiver Xavier Worthy. The unfortunate mishap, which occurred just three plays into the team's season opener against the Chargers, was a frustrating start to what became a 27-21 loss for Kansas City.

Speaking on his "New Heights" podcast, Kelce expressed deep remorse for the play. "I wasn't ready that first drive," he said. "I ran into one of my guys and offed him out of the game. That's one of the most frustrating parts, and it's hard to get your juices back going knowing you just hurt a guy."

The play was a crossing route gone wrong, with Kelce colliding with the rookie receiver. Kelce, a 13-year veteran, was quick to own the mistake, stating there was "no excuse" for his error. He acknowledged that the injury to Worthy was a massive blow to the team's game plan, especially with Rashee Rice already serving a suspension.

"I owe my guy big time, man," Kelce said. "I felt like s---. I could barely even f------ play the rest of that first half."

The Chiefs' offense did, however, find some momentum in the second half. Kelce himself scored a 37-yard touchdown, but it was not enough to overcome the early struggles. The team now faces a difficult road ahead with Worthy's recovery timeline uncertain and Rice still out for five more games.

Head coach Andy Reid confirmed Wednesday that Worthy will not undergo surgery and will not be placed on short-term injured reserve, suggesting a return is expected sooner rather than later. For now, the Chiefs will need to rely on their remaining receiving corps, including Marquise Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster, as they prepare for a critical Week 2 matchup against the defending Super Bowl champion Eagles.

Despite the setback, Kelce remains confident in his young teammate's future. "I know he's going to take the league by storm when he gets back," he said of Worthy. "He's gonna take that step into being one of the best receivers in the National Football League."