With the Kansas City Chiefs eliminated from playoff contention and quarterback Patrick Mahomes out due to a torn ACL, the team will now play out the string to see who can make a name for themselves or put themselves in a spot to be retained for next season.
The Chiefs haven’t been in this spot in a long time, but they will make do with whoever is on the field and healthy to play. While everyone was focused on Mahomes’ injury, Kansas City saw a litany of players get banged up in last week’s game, including wideout Rashee Rice.
According to Matt Derrick of Chiefs Digest, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid told reporters on Tuesday that Rice reported concussion symptoms on Monday and entered into the league’s concussion protocol. Reid also said that Rice, along with several other players, will not practice on Wednesday, per Derrick.
With that being the case, and Rice also having to pass through the league’s concussion protocol to even play, it could open up more opportunities for rookie wide receiver Jalen Royals.
Rashee Rice Injury News Opens Door for Jalen Royals in Week 16
The rookie wideout created a lot of buzz during minicamp and training camp, which had Chiefs fans dreaming about what Royals could do in this passing game. However, those dreams never materialized as the young receiver dealt with a knee injury earlier this season that kept him sidelined. Royals made his NFL debut in Week 4 against the Baltimore Ravens, where he played 25 total snaps (14 on offense, and 11 on special teams).
The 22-year-old receiver didn’t do much on offense, as he had a 30-yard kick return. Following his debut, Royals appeared in the Chiefs’ next three games, but played sparingly. The last time Chiefs fans saw him was in Week 7 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Now, with Rice down, along with Tyquan Thornton, the Chiefs will have no choice but to unleash Royals. With nothing to play for at this stage of the season, Kansas City needs to see what they have in Royals, and if he could be a part of the passing game next year.
Looking ahead to the offseason, Thornton and Hollywood Brown are both scheduled to become free agents. It’s not guaranteed that either guy comes back, so they’ll need Royals to show that he can be a playmaker.
Coming out of college, Royals’ route-running skills left much to be desired, but he showcased good, strong hands. The first-year playmaker is also a guy you want to get the ball in his hands, as he can make things happen after the catch.
A youth movement will be huge for the Chiefs to get back on track in 2026, and Royals can play a significant role in that.