Rice’s status for the 2024 season has come into question.
Patrick Mahomes speaks, and Chiefs fans listen. Mahomes has become a “living legend” in Kansas City, transforming the Chiefs from a chronic NFL also-ran to a perennial juggernaut, with the team threatening to win its third Super Bowl in as many years this season.
Mahomes and the Chiefs are looking to improve offensively in 2024 following a “down year” in 2023. Rashee Rice, a second-year wide receiver who starred as a rookie, was expected to be a vital piece in the Chiefs’ offense, but his ongoing legal issues may cause him to miss considerable time this season. Nonetheless, Mahomes appears to be counting on Rice even more in 2024, despite the uncertainty surrounding the former Southern Methodist standout.
Mahomes: Rice is getting even better
Mahomes told reporters on Friday that he sees a more “explosive” Rice than in his first year, when he had 1,200 receiving yards between the regular season and the playoffs. Mahomes believes Rice is getting “better and better,” which is no surprise given that he arrived at training camp this week in greater shape than he was last year.
#Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes says that Rashee Rice has taken a step forward from his rookie season: "He was making that progress at the end of last year in the playoffs. He's just getting better and better. He came to camp in better shape. You've been able to see how much explosion…
— Charles Goldman (@goldmctNFL) July 26, 2024
Still, Rice faces a lengthy term as a result of a high-speed hit-and-run incident in Dallas in March. The NFL has been considering suspending Rice under its personal conduct rules, but the process has been sluggish, as Rice is currently facing civil litigation rather than criminal charges.
As a result, Rice’s suspension may be extended back to 2025, allowing Mahomes another year to strengthen his relationship with one of his favorite targets. If training camp footage is any indication, Rice’s second season is looking promising.
Patrick Mahomes lofts a BEAUTIFUL pass over Nick Bolton to Rashee Rice during 7-on-7 🔥 pic.twitter.com/BYZjlHiDOP
— KC Sports Network (@KCSportsNetwork) July 24, 2024
