Rashee Rice’s Season-Ending Injury Caps Devastating Year For Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs’ difficult season has hit a new low. Star wide receiver Rashee Rice has been placed on Injured Reserve. This move ends his 2025 campaign prematurely.

The team announced the move on Wednesday. Rice sustained a concussion and missed Week 16. He will now miss the final two games, including a Christmas Day matchup with Denver.

Chiefs’ Offensive Depth Chart Stretched To Its Limit

Rice’s injury is the latest blow to a decimated offense. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes is also out for the season. Backup Gardner Minshew is injured, leaving practice squad player Chris Oladokun to start.

This creates a major challenge for Week 17. Oladokun will make his first NFL start against a top-five Denver defense. The Broncos rank fourth in yards allowed and fifth in points allowed this season.

Fantasy managers are scrambling for alternatives. Rice was a consistent PPR performer, averaging 18.8 points per game. His absence leaves a significant hole in championship week lineups.

Fantasy Fallout and Looking Ahead to 2026

The immediate fantasy outlook for Kansas City’s skill players is bleak. Tight end Travis Kelce remains a starting option, but his ceiling is limited with a third-string quarterback. The running back duo of Isaiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt may see increased usage.

This season marks just the second time since 2014 the Chiefs miss the playoffs. According to reports from ESPN and NFL Network, the team’s injury list has been a defining factor. The focus now shifts to the offseason and recovery.

Rice’s season ends after just eight games. He caught 53 passes for 571 yards and five touchdowns. Despite a six-game suspension to start the year, he led the team in receiving three times.

Rice’s injury finalizes a lost season for the Chiefs. His absence underscores the team’s profound offensive struggles. The organization now faces a long offseason of evaluation and repair.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What is Rashee Rice’s injury?

Rashee Rice suffered a concussion. The Kansas City Chiefs placed him on Injured Reserve, ending his 2025 season.

Who will replace Rashee Rice for the Chiefs?

The receiving corps will rely on players like Tyquan Thornton and Justin Watson. Targets will likely also funnel more to tight end Travis Kelce.

How does this affect fantasy football championships?

Rice was a top-tier WR1 in fantasy. Managers must find replacements on waivers, as his 18.8-point PPR average is now unavailable for the final week.

Are the Chiefs eliminated from playoff contention?

Yes. The team has been officially eliminated from the playoffs. This is their first postseason miss since the 2014 season.

What was Rashee Rice’s stats for the 2025 season?

Rice played eight games. He recorded 53 receptions, 571 receiving yards, and five receiving touchdowns.

Who is starting at quarterback for the Chiefs in Week 17?

With Mahomes and Minshew out, Chris Oladokun will start. He is a practice squad quarterback making his first NFL start against Denver.