The Kansas City Chiefs are moving forward with their training camp preparations, welcoming third-year wide receiver Rashee Rice despite his recent legal troubles. Rice, 25, was sentenced last week to five years of probation and 30 days in jail by a judge in Dallas County after he pleaded guilty to two third-degree felony charges stemming from a multi-car crash that injured several individuals on a Dallas highway.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirmed on Sunday that Rice will participate fully in training camp. “We’re going to progress as normal with him,” Reid stated. “He’ll take all the reps that he’d normally take. We always rotate that position, so depending on what happens here in the future, whoever needs to play will be able to step in and be in good shape to do it.”
While a suspension from the NFL is anticipated, Reid indicated uncertainty regarding the timing of any potential disciplinary action. The league has yet to announce its decision concerning Rice, who is facing significant consequences from his actions.
Rice’s plea deal includes deferred probation, meaning his case will be dismissed if he successfully completes the terms of his probation. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the 30 days of jail time can be served at any point during the five years of probation. In addition, Rice has been ordered to pay medical expenses totaling $115,481.91 to the victims of the crash, which he and former Southern Methodist University (SMU) cornerback Teddy Knox caused. The incident occurred on March 30, 2024, while Rice was allegedly speeding at 119 mph in a Lamborghini Urus SUV during rush hour.
The Dallas County District Attorney’s Office reported that Rice made multiple aggressive maneuvers around traffic and failed to check on those injured before he fled the scene on foot.
In a statement released by his lawyer, Royce West, Rice expressed remorse for his actions. “There have been a lot of sleepless nights thinking about the damages that my actions caused,” he said. “I will continue working within my means to make sure that everyone impacted will be made whole. I urge everyone to mind the speed limit, drive safe, and drive smart. I fully apologize for the harm I caused to innocent drivers and their families.”
Rice’s performance last season saw him catch 24 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns in the first four games before a knee injury led to him being placed on injured reserve in early October. He subsequently underwent season-ending surgery for a lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injury. After a standout rookie season in which he recorded 79 receptions for 938 yards and 7 touchdowns, his second season has been marred by injury and legal issues.
As training camp begins, Reid and his staff will monitor Rice’s rehabilitation closely. The Chiefs are counting on his recovery as they prepare for the upcoming season. Rice participated in the team’s voluntary organized team activities (OTAs) and mandatory minicamp, indicating his commitment to returning to the field. As the situation develops, the Chiefs remain focused on their training objectives while addressing the impact of Rice’s legal challenges.
