In the midst of a stellar start to the season, one player has emerged as a crucial component of the team’s success. Wide receiver Rashee Rice has been a revelation, hauling in 24 catches and amassing 288 receiving yards through the first three games. His impressive performance has earned him recognition as a top contender for early-season MVP.
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been effusive in his praise, stating, “He’s a complete receiver. He’s getting better and better, and he can do it all. He can catch the ball down the field, block, and do whatever it takes to be a good receiver in this league.”
Rice’s breakout season comes at a time when he faces personal challenges off the field. However, on the gridiron, he has become Mahomes’ go-to target, benefiting from opponents’ decision to respect the deep speed of rookie receiver Xavier Worthy and the underneath ability of tight end Travis Kelce.
Mahomes notes that Rice’s versatility has been key, saying, “He’s able to run more and more routes, and then the way he’s able to catch the ball and make stuff happen after the catch, he is a hard guy to tackle.”
Rice’s numbers may eventually level off as defenses adjust their coverage, but for now, he’s enjoying the ride, saying, “It feels great… I hope it starts in practice. It starts on Tuesday, first day of practice. Even in the meeting room, just take everything seriously. Don’t get too comfortable.”
With two 100-yard games already under his belt, Rice is determined to sustain his success, relying on his teammates to create opportunities. As he puts it, “I’m having a lot more fun, and we’ve got a lot of guys on the field that are… Trav taking eyes off, but also [Worthy], and we’ve got a lot of weapons on the field, so it’s a lot more fun that way.”
Coach Andy Reid echoes Mahomes’ sentiments, praising Rice’s development, saying, “He’s a good, consistent catcher, works himself up field, and is tough and plays physical… He’ll keep rolling, but it’s a way smaller margin than what he had to grow from the beginning here last year.”
As the team prepares to face the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, Rice remains focused on his craft, driven by a desire to improve and make the most of his opportunity.
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