Andy Reid expects Rashee Rice back before training camp, but the Kansas City Chiefs still have plenty to sort through with their top receiver.
Rice is currently serving a 30-day jail sentence in Texas, which has kept him out of mandatory minicamp from June 9 to June 11.
The timing is not ideal for a Chiefs offense trying to build chemistry before camp opens in late July at Missouri Western State University.
Reid was asked whether Rice would be ready for camp and gave the Rashee Rice update fans were hoping for, even if it came with caution.
"I think he will be. He gets out [of jail] next week. We'll see where it goes. He'll be back up here and working."
Rice was booked into Dallas County Jail on May 19 after violating probation by testing positive for THC. His release date is listed as June 16.
Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images
The case stems from a March 2024 crash in Dallas, where Rice was driving a Lamborghini involved in a high-speed, chain-reaction wreck that injured multiple people.
He later pleaded guilty to a collision involving serious bodily injury and racing on a highway, causing bodily injury. He received five years of probation, a 30-day jail sentence, restitution, and also served a six-game NFL suspension to start last season.
Rice has also dealt with civil fallout from the crash and had recent knee cleanup surgery before entering jail, making his offseason more complicated than a simple absence.
That matters because Rice remains one of Kansas City's most important playmakers. He had 53 catches for 571 yards and five touchdowns last season, and his Chiefs career totals sit at 156 receptions, 1,797 yards, and 14 touchdowns.
When available, he gives Patrick Mahomes the run-after-catch target this offense has often lacked.
If Rice is delayed, Xavier Worthy becomes the obvious player who must shoulder more. Jalen Royals, Tyquan Thornton, Cyrus Allen, and Nikko Remigio could also see bigger roles, while Travis Kelce and Noah Gray may have to steady the short passing game.
Reid's update was positive. But with Rice, the Chiefs can no longer treat availability as guaranteed.
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