With Sunday’s AFC West showdown against the Denver Broncos less than 72 hours away, the Kansas City Chiefs released a Thursday practice report that complicates what will be a crucial divisional test.
Wide receiver Xavier Worthy was listed as limited(ankle), running back Isiah Pacheco did not practice (knee), and defensive end George Karlaftis remained limited (thumb), according to the Chiefs’ official Week 11 report.
Should Worthy be sidelined or limited in Denver, quarterback Patrick Mahomes would be without his top deep threat. And if Pacheco can’t go, the burden shifts to Kareem Hunt, rookie Brashard Smith, and Mahomes to carry the offense.
Missing or being limited in Thursday’s practice doesn’t guarantee a player will sit, but it often points that way.
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Worthy has totaled 24 catches for 256 yards and one receiving touchdown, along with seven carries for 73 rushing yards and a rushing score, averaging 10.7 yards per catch and 10.4 yards per carry, emphasizing his big-play ability.
As Kansas City’s top deep threat, his speed stretches defenses and creates space for Travis Kelce and Rashee Rice. Without him, the offense loses much of its flexibility and big-play potential.
Pacheco, meanwhile, traditionally operates as the team’s early down and short yardage back, a workhorse who eases down-and-distance for Mahomes and helps control the clock.
While he’s logged modest stats this season (78 carries for 329 yards and one TD), he provides a semi-steady complement on the ground to their passing attack, which may already be hindered with Worthy.
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Then there’s Mahomes, who remains among the league’s best — 2,349 passing yards (fifth in the NFL), 17 TDs (seventh), and five INTs, along with a 74.5 QBR (second-best).
However, when the run game is compromised and the top vertical threat is hobbled, defenses can compress the field and get after the quarterback, forcing Mahomes to play mistake-free.
Attention now shifts to Friday’s practice report and the Chiefs’ gameday statuses. Should Worthy or Pacheco be ruled out, Sunday’s game plan will adjust significantly, with major implications for Mahomes’ outlook.