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The Kansas City Chiefs receiving corps is their biggest weakness, but rookie Rashee Rice is emerging as the bona fide No. 1 wide receiver they need.
Per Pro Football Focus, the second-round pick out of SMU has logged 32 receptions for 333 yards (fourth in the NFL) and three TDs over his past four games. PFF also recently gave him a grade of 85, tied for 13th at his position.
On a recent episode of his podcast, Kansas City tight end Travis Kelce praised Rice and explained why he thinks he’ll keep improving.
“I’m proud as hell of him,” Kelce said. “He’s slowly been taking more and more responsibility as this year’s gone on and him and [quarterback Patrick Mahomes] have been able to, up to this point create a great relationship and a great common ground. In big key moments, too. I’m talking about third downs when we need it most. I think his game is going to keep growing.”
Per Pro Football Reference, the Chiefs lead the league in drops (37 in 14 games). While Mahomes recently told Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio that “playing confident” will solve the issue, it’s hard to believe the wideouts will suddenly improve.
Kansas City (9-5) is entering a crucial stretch. The New York Times simulator gives the Chiefs a 79 percent chance to host a wild card if they win their next three games. Expect them to count on Rice.
The 23-year-old might be on the verge of stardom and could help the Chiefs become the first team to repeat as champions since the New England Patriots in 2004. As of Wednesday, oddschecker gives them the second-best Super Bowl odds (+700).
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