The Kansas City Chiefs were given surprise news on Wednesday with the looming suspension for Rashee Rice finally falling into place. While a resolution was originally not expected until the end of September, the two sides have reached an agreement with Rice accepting a six-game suspension that will keep the star receiver out until the middle of October. With this in mind, one Chief is now clearly under immense pressure to live up to expectations.
Xavier Worthy is the obvious answer when looking for which player will most be expected to step up during the absence of the star. Worthy's speed and the trust built with Patrick Mahomes put pressure and responsibility instantly on his shoulders. This is Worthy's second season, and already could be the expected breakout year for the speedy pass catcher.
Now, it has gone from an expectation to a clear need as the team looks to find a way to make it through the early part of the season without its best playmaker. Worthy finished his rookie season with 638 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns. To properly fill the role of Rice, this needs to be close to doubled on both counts.
Chiefs WR Rashee Rice has accepted a six-game suspension that will start in Week 1, per source.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) August 27, 2025
Rice will be eligible to return Oct. 19 against the Raiders. pic.twitter.com/HTEcjA8cCj
Xavier Worthy Must Replace Chiefs Lost Production After Rashee Rice Suspension
Respected NFL insider Dianna Russini reported that the two sides had reached an agreement with Rice accepting the six-game suspension. It does seem the NFL has lessened the punishment, as an earlier report indicated double-digit games were a possibility. There is no defense of the receiver's actions or the danger he chose to put others in with a dangerous and selfish choice. As much as Kansas City loves its star, there is no reasonable argument against the punishment levied.
If anything, it is a light sentence in comparison to what could've been. Still, it is difficult to look at the next month of the season and realize your best playmaker is going to be sideline. Travis Kelce is aging and needs to save his best moments for when the games matter most. Looking at the rest of the Chiefs' options, it is clear that Worthy is the one piece capable of replacing the lost production.
The only question mark for Worthy is whether a higher volume will increase injury risks for the slightly built receiver. As long as the Texas alum is able to stay healthy, he is the team's best chance of replacing Rice and finding a consistent primary option in the first six weeks of the season.