Travis Kelce Defends Rashee Rice Amid Roster Inclusion and Crash Aftermath

Kansas City, MO – July 18, 2025, 11:06 AM +07

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has stepped forward to defend teammate Rashee Rice, offering a passionate plea as the wide receiver faces scrutiny over his inclusion in the team’s official roster following a high-profile multi-car crash in 2024. With training camp just days away, Kelce’s comments aim to shift the narrative around Rice, who was sentenced to 30 days in jail and five years of probation earlier this week.

Rice, 25, pleaded guilty on July 17 to felony charges related to the March 2024 Dallas highway crash, which injured multiple people, per ESPN. Despite the legal fallout, the Chiefs retained him on the active roster, a decision sparking debate among fans and analysts. Kelce, a three-time Super Bowl champion and locker room leader, addressed the controversy Thursday during a media session at Missouri Western.

“Everyone deserves a chance to make amends and change,” Kelce said. “Rashee’s getting better every day and has been grinding hard during OTAs. Let’s give him that opportunity.” His words reflect a belief in redemption, echoing the team’s stance that Rice’s on-field progress and remorse warrant support.

Rice’s 2024 season was derailed by a knee injury, limiting him to four games with 24 catches for 288 yards and two touchdowns. His 2023 rookie year—79 receptions, 938 yards, and seven scores—helped secure Super Bowl LVIII, but the crash and subsequent legal issues, including a $115,481.91 restitution order, have overshadowed his potential. Chiefs coach Andy Reid confirmed Rice’s participation in voluntary OTAs, noting his dedication despite the uncertainty.

Kelce’s defense comes as Chiefs Kingdom grapples with mixed emotions. Fans on X are divided, with @ChiefsKingdomFan posting, “Travis is right—let Rashee prove himself,” while @ArrowheadTruth warned, “One mistake shouldn’t erase his talent, but he needs to earn it.” The team’s decision to keep Rice, backed by a 72.3 PFF grade from his rookie year, hinges on his ability to regain form and avoid further trouble.

Kelce, who signed a two-year, $34.25 million extension in 2024, per Spotrac, has been a mentor to younger players, and his support could bolster Rice’s integration. “He’s taken accountability, and that’s what matters,” Kelce added, referencing Rice’s public apology. The Chiefs, with $11.2 million in cap space per NFL.com, are banking on Rice’s recovery to complement stars like Xavier Worthy.

As training camp begins Monday, Rice’s presence remains a focal point. Can Kelce’s advocacy and Rice’s effort turn the page on this chapter? His performance will be critical for the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LX aspirations. Stay tuned to ESPN for updates on this unfolding story.