Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Marquise Brown is set to miss 4-6 weeks due to a sternoclavicular injury, potentially sidelining him for the team’s season opener against the Baltimore Ravens on September 5.

The injury happened during the Chiefs’ preseason debut against the Jacksonville Jaguars, drawing parallels to former Chiefs receiver Tyreek Hill, who suffered a similar injury in 2019.

How Marquise Brown’s injury affects Chief’s season start

The timing of Brown’s injury raises concerns for the Chiefs’ receiving corps, especially with fellow wide receiver Rashee Rice’s legal troubles and potential suspension still unresolved.

If Brown’s recovery extends closer to six weeks, he could start the season on injured reserve, leaving the Chiefs with a significantly depleted wide receiver lineup.

With Brown’s absence, the Chiefs may rely heavily on first-round rookie Xavier Worthy, who is yet to prove himself in the NFL.

Despite his speed, Worthy didn’t see a single target in his preseason debut, and his smaller frame may pose challenges against seasoned NFL defenses.

However, the Chiefs are no strangers to adapting their offensive strategies.

The Chiefs’ receiving depth, while not ideal, is built on versatility and experience.

Veterans like Justin Watson, Skyy Moore, and Kadarius Toney have all played meaningful roles in past seasons.

Watson, in particular, had a career-best year in 2023 with 27 catches for 460 yards and three touchdowns.

The receiver room, though thin at the top, is reminiscent of the interchangeable units that helped Kansas City secure back-to-back Super Bowl victories in recent years.

Chiefs relying on Patrick Mahomes’ magic

While the team’s offensive approach may need adjustments, Kansas City’s defense, under the guidance of Steve Spagnuolo, remains formidable.

Though the Chiefs would prefer not to repeat their 2023 season, which leaned heavily on clutch performances and defensive stops, the depth and talent across the roster suggest they are well-equipped to navigate these early challenges.

The team’s proven ability to adapt and excel under pressure will be crucial as they prepare for the season ahead.

With Mahomes at the helm and a blend of experienced and fresh talent, Kansas City remains a force to be reckoned with, even in the face of adversity.