The Kansas City Chiefs' early-season plans at the receiver position continue to face negative updates. Rashee Rice reached a deal that will keep the receiver suspended for the first six games of the season, leaving the primary playmaker out of the KC offense until the middle of October. Added to this is a recent report that Jalen Royals is expected to miss extended time as well and hasn't practiced in recent days. There is a conflicting report that has Royals ready to start the year.
However, it seems the safer bet is expecting the rookie to miss time. It would explain why the current roster construction included eight receivers. The initial reaction was to believe the suspension of Rice and injuries to Hollywood Brown were the reasons. All leaving fans with reasons for concern with the offense heading into the season.
It is a lot of pressure put on Patrick Mahomes to create plays if both Royals and Rice are gone to start the season. The Chiefs' offense is completely relying on the continued emergence of Xavier Worthy and whatever is left in the tank for Travis Kelce. Brown cannot be relied on to stay on the field, with the remaining cast all being obvious question marks.
Some Jalen Royals News@ByNateTaylor on The Drive With @cdotharrison Says that the Chiefs Rookie WR will not be ready for Week 1 Vs the Chargers and Has Not Practiced in a Long Time.
— DMac Wake (@DMacWake316) August 27, 2025
Could go on Short Term IR.
Chiefs Continues to Get Dealt Difficult News at Receiver
The initial report was on The Drive and was followed by another report that further spells out Kansas City's plans. It seems the Chiefs were aware of both the injury concerns to the rookie and Rice's pending suspension. While it isn't panic time as long as Mahomes and Reid are at the helm, a healthy level of concern is warranted.
Two incredibly important pieces have been lost before a regular-season snap has happened. It leaves the Chiefs in limbo offensively and again leaning on unproven weapons and a loaded defense. Fans should again prepare for early nail-biters that Mahomes simply finds a way to pull out of the fire. While it isn't the most fun brand of football, there is no denying its entertainment value.
For Royals, it does take away a clear chance to become an early star in the KC offense. With Rice gone, there is a clear void that now only Worthy will be expected to fill. Not an ideal start to what was supposed to be a year that the offense took a meaningful step forward.