Chiefs Get Surprise Rashee Rice Update to Start OTAs

The Chiefs are still waiting for the legal process involving Rashee Rice to play out, though it appears he'll be suspended at some point either this season or next. In the meantime, Kansas City is moving forward with Rice participating normally.

OTAs (organized team activities) officially begin on Monday. Just like the first phase of the offseason program that occurred via Zoom, Rice is reportedly a full participant with no restrictions.

Given the recent off-field headlines Chiefs players have been making, this is a positive step as the team tries to become the first in NFL history to win three consecutive Super Bowls.

Chiefs News: Rashee Rice a Full Participant in OTAs

The two-time defending Super Bowl champions are favored to win the AFC and enjoy another spectacular season, though it'll get harder if Rice misses a significant portion of the year.

Rice is a rising star for the offense, emerging as a second-round pick to catch 79 passes for 938 yards and seven TDs. He added another 262 yards and a TD in the postseason, solidifying himself as an important piece for the team.

This offseason obviously hasn't gone as hoped, but this organization has the right leadership to get things back on track. If Rice is suspended this year, his full participation in these offseason activities will help him shake off the rust when he comes back. Of course, there's the possibility he isn't suspended at all, increasing the benefit of these workouts even more.

It's not yet clear when Rice's potential suspension will come. As a result, the Chiefs are smart to move forward as if Rice won't be suspended to keep him sharp. Kansas City has a difficult schedule this year, and players have credited early workouts with Andy Reid for preparing them for the postseason.

The Chiefs are, one again, one step ahead of the competition. Here's hoping the stories this week will be about the practices themselves and not any off-field issues.

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