Matt Johnson
The Kansas City Chiefs took a calculated risk in the 2023 NFL Draft, selecting wide receiver Rashee Rice despite significant off-field concerns. As the 26-year-old heads into the final year of his rookie contract, recent developments might have changed the team’s approach.
This past week, ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported on his podcast that the Chiefs “have no plans” of signing Rice to a contract extension anytime soon.
“What I think of here is the opportunity that he is squandering. If Rashee Rice were a clean player with no off-the-field issues, with no injuries, we’d be talking about a new contract this offseason in excess of $40 million a year.”
Adam Schefter on a potential Rashee Rice contract extension and the Kansas City Chiefs approach
Related: Chiefs Linked to Potential Rashee Rice Replacement
- Rashee Rice stats (ESPN): 53 receptions, 571 receiving yards, 5 touchdowns in eight games
It’s hard not to blame the Chiefs front office for a strong hesitation to sign Rice to an extension. The recent probation violation, stemming from a positive test for marijuana, required him to spend 30 days in jail. The 26-year-old’s decision-making has long been a question, and durability is also now an issue.
Rice recently underwent a cleanup surgery on his right knee. While it isn’t expected to sideline him for training camp, it’s the latest injury setback for the young wideout. Between that and the risk of him facing further suspensions for any off-field issues, there are multiple risks that would jeopardize his long-term availability.
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- Rashee Rice contract (Spotrac): $1.56 million cap hit in 2026, NFL free agent in 2027
Kansas City also has to factor in the exorbitant cost of signing a No. 1 wide receiver. Heading into the 2026 NFL season, nine wide receivers have an average annual contract value of $30-plus million, and 22 wide receivers are making $20-plus million annually.
There are just far too many risks associated with Rice to gamble $30-plus million per season for a player who has suited up for just 12 regular-season games in the last two years. The Chiefs are taking the right approach, with Rice ultimately the only one who will feel the effects of his off-field issues.
