Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid provided an update on wide receiver Rashee Rice on October 3, stating that Rice would be the only player sitting out of practice ahead of Week 5. The team is waiting for the swelling in his right knee to subside before further evaluation, which explains why Rice has not yet been placed on injured reserve.
Arrowhead Pride’s Pete Sweeney observed Rice in the locker room, noting that his right leg was fully wrapped, but he appeared to be walking normally without crutches. However, Rice will not be available to the media until he recovers.
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes expressed optimism about Rice’s recovery during an interview, stating that he hopes Rice will return soon. Mahomes also praised coach Reid for managing injuries well in the past and expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adjust offensively.
Despite this optimism, Reid remained cautious, saying it’s a “wait and see” situation and that the final decision will rest with the doctors. Later on October 3, NFL insider Albert Breer reported that the Chiefs had placed Rice on injured reserve, meaning he will miss at least four games.
Reid acknowledged Rice’s impressive year but emphasized that injuries are part of the game, and the team expects other players to step up. Mahomes mentioned players like JuJu Smith-Schuster, Justin Watson, and Noah Gray as potential replacements and highlighted the need to give rookie Xavier Worthy more opportunities.
Regarding the play that led to Rice’s injury, Mahomes expressed regret, admitting he felt bad for being involved in the tackle that contributed to the injury. However, he emphasized that injuries like this can happen in football.
Rice’s absence will be a significant loss for the Chiefs, as he was on track for a standout season with 136 catches and 1,632 receiving yards through the first three weeks.
