NFL Proposed Double-Digit Suspension for Rashee Rice

What They're Saying

Pelissero: “The NFL initially proposed a lengthy suspension that would sidelined Chiefs WR Rashee Rice for over half the season. And while a Sept.30 hearing date has been set, it’s still possible a settlement could be reached before the season.”

2025 Fantasy Football Impact

If a settlement is reached before the season, Rice would serve any suspension starting in Week 1, rather than later in the year. Kansas City was originally bracing for a suspension of four-plus games for Rice, but with the NFL proposing double-digit contests, we could be looking at a lengthier suspension. Pelissero adds that the NFLPA countered for a much shorter suspension because “there is no precedent for suspending someone for over half the season in a case like this.”

Rice is expected to face a suspension, but two questions remain: how many games will he miss, and during what stretch of the season? 

WR Xavier Worthy will operate as QB Patrick Mahomes’ lead wideout in Rice’s absence and if his post-bye bump from his rookie year is any indication, he could have a breakout 2025. Following Kansas City’s Week 6 bye, Worthy averaged 7.0 targets, 4.3 receptions, 1.3 carries and 12 PPR points per game. During that stretch, Worthy was also targeted on 22.6% of his routes, compared to just 16.6% during the first five weeks. 

We’ll continue to track this situation as it develops. As it currently stands, Rice will be able to play the first four games of the season. He remains an incredibly risky selection in fantasy drafts.