Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy was arrested on Friday night on felony assault charges, according to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office jail records.
Worthy, 21, was charged with “ASSAULT FAM/HOUSE MEM IMPEDE BREATH/CIRCULAT,” a third-degree felony offense. Under Texas law, this charge applies when an individual intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly impedes another person’s breathing or blood circulation by applying pressure to their throat or neck or by obstructing their nose or mouth. If convicted, the offense carries a penalty ranging from two to ten years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
The Kansas City Chiefs issued a brief statement on Saturday morning, saying, “We are aware and gathering information.”
Worthy was selected by the Chiefs in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of the University of Texas. During his rookie season, he recorded 59 receptions for 638 yards and six touchdowns, making an impact in Kansas City’s offensive scheme.
Former Texas star WR and Chiefs WR Xavier Worthy was arrested Friday Night in Williamson County, TX.
Charges: Criminal charge of assault against a family or household member by impeding their breathing or circulation. pic.twitter.com/AeRtGcXp74
— Will Kunkel (@WillKunkelFOX) March 8, 2025
This marks the second consecutive offseason in which a Chiefs wide receiver has faced legal issues. In April 2024, Rashee Rice was arrested in connection with a multi-car crash while allegedly racing a Lamborghini in northeast Dallas. He was also accused of assaulting a photographer at a Dallas nightclub in May, though charges were later dropped after the accuser signed an affidavit of non-prosecution.
Worthy’s arrest raises concerns for the Chiefs as they prepare for the upcoming season. The team and legal authorities have yet to provide further details on the case, and it remains unclear what disciplinary action, if any, the NFL may take in response to the incident.