Wide receiver Marquise Brown, a notable offseason acquisition for the Kansas City Chiefs, will miss the team’s season opener against the Baltimore Ravens, according to coach Andy Reid. Reid confirmed that Brown, who has been a standout in terms of progress, will not be available for the game. His recovery from a shoulder dislocation sustained during the preseason will be monitored, but Reid did not anticipate his return for this week’s match.
The Chiefs had anticipated Brown’s absence, evident from their decision to retain seven wide receivers on their roster. This group includes Xavier Worthy, their 2024 first-round draft pick, Rashee Rice, who was the leading receiver last season, and newly signed JuJu Smith-Schuster.
Reid has indicated that these receivers will have opportunities to play against the Ravens, with quarterback Patrick Mahomes having developed chemistry with them during practice.
JuJu Smith-Schuster, a key player for the Chiefs in 2022 before spending last season with the New England Patriots, has rejoined the team and is expected to make an impact. Reid noted that Smith-Schuster has looked sharp in practice and is integrating well with the team. Although Smith-Schuster may need time to adjust to game situations, his return is seen as a positive development for the Chiefs.
Xavier Worthy, who is new to the NFL and has not yet played in a regular-season game, has impressed in practice. Reid acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Worthy’s performance in real games but expressed optimism based on his practice sessions. Worthy has been proactive in learning and adapting to the expectations of quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the coaching staff.
While the Chiefs will start the season without Marquise Brown, they have a solid group of receivers ready to step up. Reid’s confidence in Worthy and Smith-Schuster, along with the established rapport between Mahomes and his receiving corps, suggests that the team is well-prepared to face the Ravens despite the absence of one of their key offseason additions.
