In a devastating blow to the Kansas City Chiefs, star wide receiver Rashee Rice is unlikely to return this season after injuring his right knee. Rice had been a standout player for the Chiefs, with 24 catches for 288 yards and two touchdowns before his injury. The news of his impending surgery to repair the LCL in his knee has left fans and teammates reeling.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, doctors have indicated that Rice’s injury may not be as severe as originally feared, with only the LCL needing to be repaired. This could potentially shorten his recovery time, but his return this season still remains unlikely. ESPN’s Adam Schefter noted that the full extent of Rice’s injury won’t be known until after the surgery on Tuesday.
While the news of a potentially less severe injury is encouraging, Rice’s absence will undoubtedly be felt by the Chiefs. With Hollywood Brown already out for the season, losing Rice is a heavy blow to the team’s offense. In his rookie season, Rice emerged as a key playmaker for the team, racking up 79 catches for 938 yards and seven touchdowns. He also contributed 26 catches for 262 yards and a touchdown during the Chiefs’ Super Bowl run.
The loss of Rice leaves a significant void in the Chiefs’ receiving corps, and his absence will undoubtedly impact the team’s offensive production moving forward. Despite the setback, the Chiefs will need to regroup and find ways to compensate for Rice’s absence as they continue their pursuit of a playoff berth.