Chiefs WR Rashee Rice Cleared by NFL After Investigation

The National Football League has closed its investigation into Rashee Rice, determining that the Kansas City Chiefs receiver will not face discipline related to abuse allegations made earlier this year.

In a statement released Friday, the league said there was “insufficient evidence” to conclude that Rice violated its personal conduct policy, officially ending its review of claims brought forward by his former girlfriend, Dacoda Jones.

NFL Closes Case Without Punishment

Following its investigation, the NFL concluded Rice did not engage in conduct warranting disciplinary action under league rules. His attorney welcomed the outcome, noting that Rice now looks ahead to the 2026–27 season.

The decision means Rice avoids additional league punishment after already serving a suspension last season tied to an unrelated incident.

Civil Case Still Ongoing

While the NFL has closed its investigation, legal proceedings remain active outside the league. Jones filed a civil lawsuit in Texas earlier this year seeking more than $1 million in damages, alleging repeated physical abuse over an extended period.

Rice has denied the allegations through his legal representation, pointing to a prior affidavit in which Jones reportedly stated he did not physically assault her during a specific incident. The case is expected to proceed through the court system.

Context: Prior Off-Field Incident

Rice’s recent history includes a separate legal matter stemming from a 2024 high-speed crash in Dallas. He later pleaded guilty to felony charges related to the incident and received a 30-day jail sentence along with five years of probation.

That episode resulted in a six-game suspension during the 2025 season for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy.

Focus Shifts Back to Football

With the league’s investigation now closed, the NFL has cleared Rice to participate fully moving forward. The 25-year-old remains a key piece of the Chiefs’ offense after recording 53 receptions for 571 yards and five touchdowns in limited action last season.

The absence of further discipline provides clarity for both Rice and the Chiefs as they prepare for the upcoming campaign, even as the civil case continues in the background.

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