The Kansas City Chiefs were without Rashee Rice last season, yet still made it to the Super Bowl. Now, it looks like Rice might return earlier than initially expected.
Rice suffered a torn ACL during the Chiefs’ 17-10 victory over the Chargers in Week 4, cutting short a breakout campaign where he topped the league in receptions and ranked second in receiving yards. His injury left a clear void in Kansas City’s offense, which struggled to replace his explosive playmaking. As the new season nears, the team remains hopeful, with Pro Football Focus’ Ryan Smith suggesting Rice could return to full form by Week 1.
“The Chiefs still reached the Super Bowl, but their offense clearly lacked the same punch without Rice. As a unit, they finished just 15th in PFF receiving grade (75.3) and struggled to generate the explosive plays that have defined their identity in recent years,” said Smith in his article.
Many anticipated a slow recovery for Rice after his knee injury, but Andy Reid confirmed earlier this offseason that Rice remained on track. As OTAs continue and training camp nears, the Chiefs will closely evaluate how well his knee is holding up.
“With OTAs underway, the Chiefs are expected to take a cautious approach to Rice’s recovery. If all progresses smoothly, he should be ramped up during training camp and could be ready to return at full strength by Week 1,” Smith continued.
Rashee Rice and his road to recovery with the Chiefs
Recovering physically is only part of the challenge for Rice, as he’s also dealing with legal trouble stemming from an alleged hit-and-run incident in March 2024. With felony charges still pending, the outcome of his trial could ultimately determine whether he sees the field at all.
The NFL has yet to issue any discipline for Rice, as the league usually waits until legal proceedings conclude before acting. Given the likely length of his trial, Rice might avoid suspension during the 2025 season.
Meanwhile, Rice is concentrating on regaining full health to contribute to the Chiefs. His speed stretches the field, creating opportunities for Patrick Mahomes and the offense—especially with Travis Kelce and Xavier Worthy also running routes.
In two seasons with the Chiefs, Rice has appeared in just 20 games, mainly because of his knee injury during the 2024 season. In those games, he’s recorded 103 receptions, 1,226 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns. If healthy, Rice is expected to play a key role in Kansas City’s offense next year.
