The Kansas City Chiefs are getting ready to make adjustments at the wide receiver position, as they prepare for the possibility that Rashee Rice could miss an extended period due to a knee injury. According to league sources, the Chiefs are awaiting the final medical evaluation of Rice’s condition, which should be available early next week after he undergoes a knee procedure.
There is optimism that Rice could still play this season, with a potential recovery period of six to eight weeks, but confirmation will depend on the doctors’ assessment. The Chiefs remain hopeful for Rice’s return this year.
Rice’s absence would create a noticeable void in the Chiefs’ offense, as he has been a major contributor this season, leading the team in catches and receiving yards. The Chiefs have a recent track record of making in-season trades to address wide receiver needs, having brought in Kadarius Toney from the Giants two years ago and Mecole Hardman from the Jets last year. With Hollywood Brown also sidelined for the rest of the regular season, the Chiefs are likely to explore trade options again to strengthen their receiving lineup.
One potential target for the Chiefs could be DeAndre Hopkins, whom the team considered during the offseason before he ultimately signed a two-year contract with the Tennessee Titans. Now in the final year of his deal, Hopkins might become available if the Titans are open to trade offers. Another option for Kansas City could be inquiring with the New York Jets, particularly if they acquire Davante Adams from the Raiders, as the Chiefs may be interested in exploring the availability of other Jets receivers.
However, the Chiefs are unlikely to pursue Adams directly. With only around $5 million in cap space, taking on Adams’ salary would be challenging without financial concessions from the Raiders, who are unlikely to aid a division rival.
There are also personal factors at play, as Adams might have reservations about joining Kansas City due to a legal issue following a game there in 2022. Additionally, the Chiefs’ complex offense could make it difficult for any new receiver to adjust mid-season.
Rice has officially been placed on injured reserve, which sidelines him for at least the next four games. He sustained the knee injury during a recent game against the Chargers when quarterback Patrick Mahomes accidentally collided with him while pursuing a fumble. Despite this setback, the Chiefs are actively exploring various options to strengthen their receiving corps and sustain their offensive momentum.
