The National Football League has concluded its internal review and determined no grounds for disciplinary action against Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice. This decision comes despite ongoing legal proceedings stemming from allegations of assault made by his former girlfriend, Dacoda Jones. The league’s investigation, initiated in February, focused on claims that Rice engaged in prolonged physical abuse causing injury.
The NFL's announcement Friday stated that Rice “has not engaged in conduct that violates the personal conduct policy.” This delicate timing, coinciding with a holiday weekend, often signals an effort to minimize immediate public reaction.
Rice's legal team expressed gratitude for the league's thoroughness and anticipation for the upcoming season. However, the lawsuit filed by Jones, which alleges Rice physically assaulted her over an eighteen-month period, remains active and is scheduled for trial on June 9.
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The receiver's past also includes a six-game suspension at the beginning of the last season. This suspension was a consequence of his involvement in a high-speed crash in Dallas during the 2024 offseason. The incident resulted in multiple injuries and led to felony charges, including collision involving serious bodily injury and racing on a highway causing bodily injury. Rice pleaded guilty to these charges and received a sentence of 30 days in jail, alongside five years of probation.
Following his return from the suspension, Rice played in eight games last season, recording 53 receptions for 571 yards and five touchdowns. The Chiefs, however, did not comment on the NFL's decision regarding Rice. The league has indicated it may re-evaluate its position should Rice's legal situation change.
