“Football doesn’t build character, it reveals character,” said legendary Bills HC Marv Levy, and Chiefs’ star QB Patrick Mahomes proves this every play and every day. Whether he’s throwing it to Hail Marys or showing up for his teammates, Mahomes’ character shines bright. His latest off-the-field touchdown? Supporting KC’s WR Rashee Rice through his legal troubles this year. Rice publicly praised Pat, saying his support has been unwavering. Just like on the gridiron, Mahomes doesn’t leave his teammates hanging.

On August 6th, Rice took the podium at the Chiefs’ preseason camp for the first time. Answering the questions, he pointed out one teammate from the roster to show gratitude to him. “He’s been very important,” Rice said about Patrick Mahomes. The WR added. “He’s there for me whenever I need him on or off the field. He’s only a call away, and he’s always going to pick up my call, so I got him.”

Rashee Rice’s rookie season with the Chiefs had its highs and lows. While he celebrated a Super Bowl win coupled with impressive stats—79 catches for 938 yards and seven touchdowns—his offseason hit a rough patch. He was charged with aggravated assault and multiple collision-related counts after a high-speed crash in Dallas back in March. Police clocked him at 119 mph before the collision that left seven people injured. Rice is also under investigation for a nightclub incident, though no charges have been filed. Now, during his media session at the camp, the 24-year-old receiver kept mum on the legal matters saying that his “team is handling”.

As for the ‘support’ of his star QB that he mentioned has been ‘very important,’ there’s more to it. Back in May, the SB LVIII MVP addressed Rice’s situation, showing the leadership you’d expect from the guy who runs the offense. “It’s not just me,” Patrick Mahomes said. “We try to teach him to learn from his mistakes. That accident was a big one, but you have to learn, make sure it doesn’t happen again, and strive to be the best person you can be.” This only shows that in Kansas City, they play for more than just touchdowns.

The Chiefs are huddling around Rice, determined to get him back on the right path. They want him to shine on the field and be a standout off it. And Patrick Mahomes has full faith in the young WR to come out all guns blazing in 2024.

Rashee Rice is in better shape, per Patrick Mahomes

The rise of a rookie receiver is directly proportional to his relations with the team’s starting QB. The connection is not only important for the WR, but for the team, too. And for ‘Chiefs Kingdom’, the Rashee Rice x Patrick Mahomes synergy is there. “I feel like our chemistry is going to continue to grow,” Rice said optimistically, and added, “I feel like it’s been growing throughout the offseason and as well as during this camp right now.” It better do, as they are after the unprecedented 3-peat.

To achieve such a big goal, you’ve got to have higher expectations. And Patrick Mahomes expects exactly that from Rice – a big 2024 season! “He’s just continuing to get better and better,” Mahomes shared on the 28th of July, per Sports Illustrated. “He came into camp this year in better shape – you’ve seen his explosion catching the football down the field.” If Rice can translate this camp form onto the gridiron in the regular season, then it will boost not only him but the entire Chiefs offense.

While he finished his rookie season on a high, it was a mixed bag for Rice. Early on, he struggled to break the 50-yard mark consistently. However, by Weeks 12-17, he turned things around, averaging seven catches and 86 yards per game, and he shone in the playoffs with a standout performance against the Dolphins.

This is where the addition of Marquise Brown to the WR room becomes important. Patrick Mahomes reckons Rice’s game is already improving with the mentoring he is receiving by being around the veteran WR. “You always see those videos of them working out. But, that’s not even all. They’re always together, they’re always working on routes. They push each other to be great,” the QB said.

The stage is set for a breakout year for Rashee Rice. However, the 2024 season will bring a huge test, not only in terms of his gameplay but also his mental fortitude in overcoming the legal challenges. Do you think Rice will be able to translate Mahomes’ faith for a stellar season? Let us know in the comments.