NFL writer shares what it will take for Chiefs' Rashee Rice to earn 'lucrative second contract'

Don't say we didn't warn you, Rashee Rice. That's the vibe going around the NFL right now, as the Kansas City Chiefs gear up for another season and one that could see them making it back to the playoffs.

Last season wasn't a good one for Rice. And a lot of the Chiefs' success is riding on him, since he's one of quarterback Patrick Mahomes' favorite targets. Last season, Rice was hit with injury and off-the-field issues after being involved in a high-speed street-racing crash in Dallas in March 2024. He also faced civil domestic abuse allegations.

So, it was a difficult season for Rice. Now, this next season is going to be huge for him and the Chiefs.

Kansas City Chiefs' Rashee Rice needs to step it up

In a tally released by Fox Sports on Thursday, Ben Arthur discusses a group of players in the NFL with the most to gain in 2026. He has Rice there. This is obviously a sticky situation, and if Rice can finally play a full season, he may deliver and show why the Chiefs wanted to invest in him so much in the first place.

"After playing just 12 games over the past two seasons combined due to suspension and injury, Rice is now in the last year of his rookie deal," Arthur states. "If he's on his best behavior and produces like a WR1 this season, the former second-rounder is in line for a lucrative second contract."

So, Arthur thinks a big payday is up ahead if, and only if, things go well. Frankly, it could go either way. With all of his drama the past few years, if he doesn't perform, that could go sour for him. He's obviously talented and would find another home, but it's an important year for him.

Last season, Rice only played in eight games after serving a six-game suspension. He had 53 receptions for 571 receiving yards and five touchdowns during those games.