Chiefs Wide Receiver Rashee Rice Is Training Hard for HIs NFL Return
Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice will take on a different role this Sunday at Super Bowl LIX. A torn LCL has sidelined the second-year player who played a pivotal part in last season’s Super Bowl victory. While it would undoubtedly be more satisfying to take the field against the Philadelphia Eagles as the Chiefs go for a third consecutive title, Rice remains committed to supporting his teammates as his knee strengthens through a rigorous rehabilitation process.
“I’m going to practice and be as anxious as those guys to play on Sunday,” Rice shared. “I want to be around the preparation because I know what it takes, and I’m eager to soak it all in.”
There is a silver lining to Rice’s situation; Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid recently told reporters that Rice’s progress is “a good sign for next year.” Rice confirms his coach’s sentiment: “The knee is doing great,” he explained. “I’ve focused on mobility and balancing, incorporating kettlebells and lighter weights for squats. I didn’t even realize that I was enhancing my range of motion.”
Rice’s rapid recovery had sparked internet rumors about his potential to return for this postseason. However, he has made it clear that next season is his target date to return to action. A key component of his rehabilitation has been blood flow restriction (BFR) training—an approach that restricts blood flow to muscle groups during exercise. Rice refers to it as “the ultimate burn,” enabling him to push his limits in the weight room while continuing to strengthen his knee. “It’s a great tool, but it really hurts,” he admitted. “Still, I love BFR by the time I get done.”