Xavier Worthy Set for Big Game in Rice’s Absence

With Rashee Rice (knee) on the sidelines, Xavier Worthy ($9,000) finds himself poised for a significant performance against the Saints this Monday. Prior to his injury in Week 4, Rice was among the top three most targeted receivers in the NFL. Last week, he participated in just 6% of the snaps, paving the way for Worthy, who made the most of his opportunities against the Chargers. He secured three of four targets for an impressive 73 yards and a touchdown, amassing 16.3 fantasy points.

This matchup against the Chargers was no walk in the park; Los Angeles boasts the sixth-highest graded defense according to PFF this season. With Rice largely absent throughout the game, Worthy was active on a season-high 89% of Patrick Mahomes’ ($11,000) dropbacks. In fact, he trailed only Travis Kelce ($8,600) in route participation, having previously not surpassed a 70% route rate.

Rice’s absence catapults Worthy into a full-time role, and his potential is substantial until Rice makes his return. This season, the 21-year-old has already received three targets in the end zone and four attempts exceeding 20 yards—both of which are team highs for Kansas City. Worthy’s elite speed is noteworthy; he clocked an astounding 21.46 MPH on his 54-yard touchdown last week, marking the fourth-fastest speed recorded in the NFL this season. His 17.11 yards per reception ranks him 11th among wide receivers.

Currently, Xavier Worthy is generating a remarkable 3.31 fantasy points per touch. As for the New Orleans defense he will confront, they have allowed the ninth-most yards to receivers this season, tallying 654. Mahomes and Worthy are likely to link up for several substantial plays in this contest, making it very plausible for the rookie to find the end zone for the fourth time this season.

Worthy not only serves as a solid starter for all-season formats but also excels in Showdown contests this Monday night. Betting on Worthy to surpass his 42.5-yard receiving line on the DraftKings Sportsbook is a judicious decision.