Chiefs put Chiefs' brightest young offensive star on IR after training camp injury

KANSAS CITY, MO — August 9, 2025

— The Kansas City Chiefs’ training camp took a hit as second-year wide receiver Rashee Rice was placed on the Injured Reserve (IR) list following a groin injury sustained during practice at Missouri Western State University. The news, confirmed on August 7, is a setback for a player expected to be a key component of the Chiefs’ high-powered offense as they chase a historic third consecutive Super Bowl title.

Rice, a second-round pick from SMU in the 2023 NFL Draft, burst onto the scene last season with 79 receptions for 938 yards and 7 touchdowns, establishing himself as a reliable target for Patrick Mahomes. His speed, route-running, and ability to make contested catches made him a standout in Kansas City’s receiver room. However, the injury, which occurred during a non-contact drill, has sidelined him for at least the early part of the 2025 season, leaving a noticeable gap in the Chiefs’ offensive lineup.

Head Coach Andy Reid expressed disappointment but remained optimistic about Rice’s recovery. “Rashee’s a tough kid with a great work ethic,” Reid said. “This is a bump in the road, but we know he’ll attack rehab like he does everything else.” Rice, visibly frustrated, shared a similar sentiment: “Nobody wants to start the season like this. My focus is getting healthy, supporting my teammates, and coming back stronger. Playing for Chiefs Kingdom is a dream—I’ll be back to make plays.”

Teammates rallied around Rice, with tight end Travis Kelce praising his maturity and leadership. “He’s still in the huddle with us, even from the sidelines,” Kelce noted. Rice’s absence puts added pressure on other receivers, including Marquise “Hollywood” Brown and rookie Xavier Worthy, to step up as the Chiefs prepare for their preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals.

The Chiefs’ rigorous training camp demands physicality and consistency, and Rice’s injury underscores the challenges of maintaining a healthy roster. With the regular season approaching, Kansas City will rely on depth players to fill the void while Rice rehabilitates. Fans are hopeful that his resilience, honed through a standout rookie campaign, will fuel a swift recovery. As the Chiefs aim for another deep playoff run, all eyes will be on Rice’s progress, eager for his return to the field in the iconic red and gold.