We’re so glad to have Rashee Rice, wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs playing for the first four weeks of the NFL season. Beyond that, his likely path is to endure some form of potential disciplinary measures. It has been a trying offseason for the 25-year-old athlete. His death followed a multicar crash in Dallas last month that left a family of six injured, including two children, 5 and 7.
Rice later pleaded guilty in district court to two third-degree felony charges. In addition, he was charged with an incident resulting in serious bodily injury and racing on a highway causing bodily injury. He was ultimately convicted and served 30 days in jail and five years of probation before being released. He was awarded deferred adjudication which will allow him to avoid a felony conviction by fulfilling the requirements of his probation.
Rice’s disciplinary hearing with the NFL is currently scheduled for September 30 in New York. Former U.S. district judge Sue L. Robinson will be presiding judge for this hearing. She will determine whether any sanctions are warranted for his behavior this offseason.
Despite the upcoming hearing, Rice has signaled that his top priority will be improving his performance. He stated, “All I can do is focus on what I can control right now, and that’s me doing what I do best right here on the field.” His passion for his work knew no bounds. He participated in every single one of the Kansas City Chiefs’ training camp practices at Missouri Western State University.
Last year, in his first season—still considered a rookie last season—Rice caught 79 passes for 938 yards, and he posted seven receiving touchdowns. Unfortunately, his season went south in a hurry after he suffered what’s being described as a “season-ending” foot injury. During Week 4, he ruptured the lateral collateral ligament in his right knee. Despite only suiting up for four games last season, the dynamic tight end had 24 receptions for 288 yards and two scores.
Now as he looks to build upon an impressive sophomore season, Rice has re-established himself as the top receiver on this team. He is determined to remain in peak physical condition, stating, “This is my job, and this is what I love to do.” He acknowledges the lessons learned from his past mistakes, saying, “I’ve completely changed. Honestly, you have to learn from things like that. I’ve taken advantage of being able to learn from something like that.”
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