NFL Releases New Statement on Rashee Rice Ahead of Week 1

The NFL released a new statement on Thursday regarding Chiefs WR Rashee Rice's potential suspension following his involvement in a Dallas car crash in March.

Reports broke Thursday morning that Rice would not be placed on the commissioner's exempt list and is fully eligible for the 2024 season as things stand. Now, NFL Executive Vice President Jeff Miller confirmed as much, saying the league was monitoring the investigation.

By all accounts, Chiefs fans should assume Rice will play the entire year and face any potential suspension in 2025. Things could change given the NFL's inconsistent application of punishment, though Kansas City seemingly will have its rising second-year star for the whole season.

NFL Releases New Statement on Chiefs WR Rashee Rice

"We're closely monitoring the developments in the matter. It remains under review," Miller said. "Certainly, with the police aspect, this is one that we're going to follow as we do, and while that's under review and investigation, there's probably not a lot more to say than that."

The NFL has been consistent regarding Rice's situation. They've maintained they want to let the legal process finish before making a suspension decision, so this statement tracks.

With the Chiefs expecting to make a deep run in their big for the league's first three-peat, Rice's availability is obviously a major concern. He's the offense's most important wide receiver even after adding Marquise 'Hollywood' Brown and Xavier Worthy in the offseason, though it appears the organization won't have much to worry about until 2025 barring a new development.

Rice has been a full participant in all of the team's offseason training periods. The Chiefs prepared as if they'd have their 2023 second-round pick all year long. Judging by this statement, they made the right call.

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