The Kansas City Chiefs have missed their playmaking wide receiver in the first three games of the season. Although they finally notched their first win of 2025 on Sunday night, the Chiefs' passing game clearly needs more polishing and weapons.
That's why Rashee Rice's return looms large for this organization. The stud wide receiver will still be out for another three games due to his suspension, but according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, Rice will at least be allowed to be with the team.
"Chiefs WR Rashee Rice, suspended the first 6 games for violating the personal conduct policy, is allowed back in KC’s facility after this week, per terms of his suspension," Rapoport wrote on Monday. "While he can’t practice, Rice can participate in meetings and ramp up for a Week 7 return vs. the Raiders."
Chiefs HC Andy Reid Raves About Rashee Rice's Impending Return
With his WR1's return looming, head coach Andy Reid shared his honest thoughts on Rice's presence, saying that his being around will most definitely be a big boost to the team's morale (h/t @ArrowheadAddict).
"We do get 4 back, and I know the guys will be fired up about that to see him. He can’t practice. He can’t be on the field, but he can do the other stuff. Just having him around, he’s a good positive energy to have around."Andy Reid, Chiefs HC
Rice was suspended six games for his violation of the league's personal conduct policy. He was involved in a multi-vehicle car crash in Dallas during the 2024 offseason, and he was also sentenced to 30 days in jail, five years of probation, and ordered to pay $115,000 in restitution.
The Chiefs' passing game has been pedestrian at best this season. Rice broke out and established himself as quarterback Patrick Mahomes' preferred target in the second half of his rookie season, but he missed most of last year with an injury, and now must deal with a delayed start to Year 3.
Second-year pro Xavier Worthy was expected to do most of the heavy lifting in his absence, but he suffered a shoulder injury early in Week 1 after a crash with tight end Travis Kelce. Worthy has yet to return to the field after being caught in that friendly fire.
Hopefully, Worthy will be back on the field in Week 4, as things won't get much easier for Reid's team before Rice is eligible to return. The Chiefs have the Baltimore Ravens at home before hitting the road to face the Jacksonville Jaguars, followed by a home game against the Detroit Lions in what could be a high-flying offensive matchup.