For the Chiefs, it’s not just about losing the last Super Bowl – it’s about the brutal way it happened. Kansas City was on the brink of history, becoming the first of the NFL’s nine back-to-back champions to reach the Super Bowl and the closest team ever to repeat. But the higher you climb, the harder the fall, and this loss was a gut punch. The dynasty remains intact with key players like Patrick Mahomes, Chris Jones, Harrison Butker, Andy Reid and Steve Spagnuolo all returning. The biggest question mark was Travis Kelce, especially after his least productive season since his rookie year. But now we know he’s coming back, thanks in large part to Rashee Rice.
Rashee Rice’s Bold Promise to Kelce
Rashee Rice refused to let Travis Kelce walk away from the game. In an interview with REVOLT Sports, the Chiefs wide receiver claimed he played a pivotal role in Kelce’s decision to return for at least one more season. “I’m not going to lie to you guys. I’m 95 percent of the reason he’s not retiring,” Rice said. “I told him he couldn’t go out like this. He was thinking about hanging it up. I was pretty sure he was going to hang it up, and I said, ‘Bro, you can’t go out like that.'”
Kelce’s future was the biggest offseason storyline in Kansas City, but Rice’s influence brought stability to the team. The young receiver’s hunger for another championship is undeniable. Last month, he posted an Instagram story congratulating Chiefs owner Clark Hunt with the caption, “Got a gift for you next year around Feb.” That statement made it clear – Rice is laser-focused on delivering another Lombardi Trophy. Now he’s made the same commitment to Kelce. After missing a significant portion of last season, Rice is determined to help Kansas City return to the Super Bowl in 2026. If they do, it will be their fourth consecutive appearance and sixth in eight years – both NFL records.
With Mahomes Chiefs Remain AFC Contenders
With Kelce back, the Chiefs remain a force in the AFC. As long as Patrick Mahomes is under center, Kansas City will be among the Super Bowl favorites. The return of Rashee Rice, along with young star Xavier Worthy, who made history as the first rookie to record multiple touchdowns, and finally the re-signing of Hollywood Brown, gives the Chiefs one of their most explosive receiving corps in years. With a fully healthy roster, Mahomes is poised to bounce back from one of his least productive statistical seasons. The Chiefs are still the team to beat, and Rice’s promise to Kelce could be just the spark Kansas City needs to get back on top.
Read the full article here
