Chiefs HC notes one thing this WR learned from Travis Kelce

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice. Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

Andy Reid notes one key thing Chiefs rookie WR learned from Travis Kelce

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 11/28/23

Kansas City Chiefs rookie wide receiver Rashee Rice is taking a page from star tight end Travis Kelce.

On Monday, Kansas City head coach Andy Reid explained how the second-round pick out of SMU followed Kelce's example of constantly communicating with superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

"He's working to be more Patrick-friendly," Reid said. "They talk through things, then run routes [and say], 'This is the look where I'm seeing you on this route against this coverage.' They spend time with each other there and then off the field likewise, for meetings, they keep an open communication there. So, it's something that is needed, especially with a young receiver."

Mahomes and Rice spending more time together has sparked a newfound chemistry. In Sunday's 31-17 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, he had a season-high eight receptions for 107 yards and one TD.

RICE. COLD. pic.twitter.com/ql2TymtoNP
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) November 26, 2023

Rice has impressed this season. The 23-year-old is tied with Kelce for the team's most receiving TDs (five) and is second in receptions (44) and receiving yards (527). Expect him to assume a larger role. Reid touted his improvement and indicated he's "getting more opportunities."

The Chiefs need Rice to crank it up and become a true No. 1 WR. This season, the K.C. receiving corps leads the NFL in drops (28), via Pro Football Reference.

In six seasons together, Kelce and Mahomes have developed into one of the best passing tandems in the league. Per StatMuse, the two-time MVP has thrown 53 touchdowns to the eight-time Pro Bowler.

If Rice and Mahomes can develop a similar rapport, that would be ideal for the defending champions. The Chiefs need a more potent passing attack to become the first team to repeat as Super Bowl champions in nearly 20 years.

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