Before the Kansas City Chiefs faced off against the Philadelphia Eagles, Travis Kelce made a statement of solidarity for his suspended teammate, Rashee Rice. During warmups on September 14, Kelce donned a custom t-shirt emblazoned with “Free 4,” a nod to Rice’s jersey number.
Tyquan Thornton, another wide receiver for the Chiefs, was also spotted wearing the same shirt as he arrived at Arrowhead Stadium that day. The gesture highlighted the camaraderie within the team amidst Rice's ongoing suspension.
Rashee Rice, 25, is currently serving a six-game suspension for his involvement in a serious multicar accident in Dallas that occurred during the 2024 offseason, resulting in multiple injuries. His legal troubles stem from pleading guilty to two third-degree felony charges: collision involving serious bodily injury and racing on a highway causing bodily injury. In July, he received a sentence of 30 days in jail along with five years of probation.
Rice's case has been granted deferred adjudication, meaning it will be dismissed upon successful completion of his probationary period. He is set to return to the field for the Chiefs’ Week 7 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders on October 17.
In August, prior to the announcement of his suspension, Rice reflected on his situation, stating, “All I can do is focus on what I can control right now, and that’s me doing what I do best right here on the field. I learned just how valuable any opportunity and moment is.” He expressed gratitude for being coached by Andy Reid and playing alongside talented teammates.
Rice acknowledged his transformation since the incident, saying, “I’ve completely changed. Honestly, you have to learn from things like that. I’ve taken advantage of being able to learn from something like that.”
A statement from Rice’s attorney released in July conveyed his remorse: “I am profoundly sorry for the physical damages to person and property.” He elaborated on the accident, noting, “There have been a lot of sleepless nights thinking about the damages that my actions caused.” He urged others to drive safely and adhere to speed limits.
Additionally, before entering his guilty plea, Rice compensated over $115,000 in restitution to cover medical expenses for the victims involved in the crash.
