Chiefs’ Rashee Rice returns to Arrowhead following NFL suspension and car crash controversy

The day has finally come for Rashee Rice and the Kansas City Chiefs. After months away from the field, Rice is back at Arrowhead Stadium for its Week 7 matchup. He missed the first six games of the season due to a suspension by the National Football League (NFL) following his involvement in a car crash in Dallas.

Rashee Rice's return also comes after a serious knee injury that cut short his 2024 season. The injury, combined with the suspension, kept him off the field longer than anyone expected.

Rashee Rice's suspension, injury, and the crash that changed everything

Rashee Rice was involved in a high-speed crash this past March 2024 on a freeway in Dallas that resulted in a six-car crash. The Guardian reported that Rice pleaded guilty in July 2025 to two charges of third-degree felonies- racing on a highway causing bodily injury and collision causing bodily injury. As part of the legal agreement, Rice was sentenced to five years of probation and 30 days in jail, though the jail time is flexible and may be served in segments. He also paid more than $115,000 in medical expenses to the crash victims.

After settling the legal situation, the NFL suspended Rice for six games for violating the personal-conduct policy. Rice missed the first six games of the season and would return to play in week 7. Rice had a knee injury in addition to the six-game sentence. He would end his 2023 season with a torn ACL in his knee, suffered in the fourth week of the season. Before the injury, Rice caught 24 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns in what would be nearly four games of action.

In total, including the 6-game suspension plus the time from the injury, Rashee Rice has been over a year without playing a regular-season snap. The organization knew this as well when head coach Andy Reid said during his press conference that Rice "looks sharp." Rice said,

"It’s been a while since I’ve gotten to play in a regular-season game with my guys, so I’m excited to get out there, to go out there and compete."

Rashee Rice's return to the field and what it means for the Chiefs

When Rashee Rice heads out to play on Sunday, it is a significant opportunity for him and the Chiefs. He returns to give another weapon to an already talented team with good players and an established quarterback like Patrick Mahomes. Without Rice for the first six games, Kansas City has had to count on other top receivers like Hollywood Brown and Xavier Worthy.

Rice's ability to play could help restore some of the earlier season's familiar rhythm for a team that could use it. Before he got injured and suspended, he was developing into a trusted target, and his rookie year established expectations. His return brings hope for improved depth in the receiving corps.

The timing is meaningful. The game is at home in Arrowhead Stadium against the Las Vegas Raiders, a rivalry that has added significance. A strong performance could change the narrative around Rice and the team's trajectory this season. Reports say that Rice is ready and motivated to help.

Still, the journey won’t be without caution. The team may limit his workload early. Coach Reid acknowledged that they won't necessarily throw him back into the deep end at once.

Trending

From Rashee Rice's point of view, this is a fresh start. He must prove not just that he can play at a high level again, but that he can lead and act responsibly. The team and its fans will watch closely.

For Kansas City, it is more than just adding a receiver back into the lineup. It is about restoring continuity and strength. The offense is dynamic, but chemistry matters. Rice’s return may help the Chiefs reclaim a dominant shape and push for playoff positioning.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback