The Kansas City Chiefs lost Rashee Rice last season, but still reached the Super Bowl. He could be good to go sooner than many expected him to be.
Rice tore his ACL in Week 4 against the Los Angeles Chargers. At the time of his injury, he was leading the league in receptions and was second in receiving yards. After he went down, the Chiefs’ offense was clearly missing a reliable, explosive receiver. According to Pro Football Focus’ Ryan Smith, the Chiefs could have him back at full strength by Week 1.
“The Chiefs still reached the Super Bowl, but their offense clearly lacked the same punch without Rice,” wrote Smith. “As a unit, they finished just 15th in PFF receiving grade (75.3) and struggled to generate the explosive plays that have defined their identity in recent years.
“With OTAs underway, the Chiefs are expected to take a cautious approach to Rice’s recovery. If all progresses smoothly, he should be ramped up during training camp and could be ready to return at full strength by Week 1.”
Many expected Rice to take some time to get back to full strength following a major knee injury. However, earlier in the offseason, Andy Reid confirmed that Rice was on track to be ready. With OTAs underway and training camp around the corner, the Chiefs will get a better look at Rice’s knee.
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If he is cleared to participate, his ramp-up would begin in the offseason, as opposed to during the season. If he goes into the season without any restrictions, the Chiefs’ offense could really improve from last year. Rice would be joining Xavier Worthy, who now has a full season under his belt. Worthy had a great finish to the year as he had 100-plus yards and caught two touchdowns in the Super Bowl.
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