In a devastating blow to the Kansas City Chiefs, star wide receiver Rashee Rice, who has been their top pass catcher this NFL season, may be sidelined for the rest of the year. The injury occurred during Sunday’s Week 4 matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers, when Rice was carted off the field after attempting to tackle safety Derwin James, who had intercepted quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
According to ESPN, Rice is feared to have suffered a torn ACL in the collision with James. Initially ruled questionable to return after receiving treatment in the locker room, Rice was later downgraded to out by the end of the first quarter. Coach Andy Reid expressed concern about the severity of the injury, telling CBS’ Tracy Wolfson during the game that it’s “not good.”
“I feel terrible for Rashee,” Reid said post-game, revealing that Rice is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday. “We will hope for the best.”
The injury occurred as Rice collided with Mahomes, who was also involved in the play trying to stop James after the turnover which gave the Chargers an early 10-0 lead over the Super Bowl champions.
Rashee Rice had been a standout player this season with 24 catches for 288 yards and two touchdowns, building on his impressive rookie year as Mahomes’ primary deep threat. Unfortunately, Rice is not the only key player on the Chiefs roster facing injury issues. Running back Isiah Pacheco and wide receiver Marquise Brown are both on injured reserve (IR) and Brown is expected to miss a significant portion of the rest of the season.
The loss of Rice is undoubtedly a huge blow to the Chiefs, who will need to look to other players to step up in his absence as they aim to defend their Super Bowl title. The team, the fans, and everyone in the organization will be anxiously awaiting the results of Rice’s MRI, hoping for the best possible outcome in what has been a tough start to the season on the injury front for Kansas City.
