The Kansas City Chiefs have issued a statement confirming they are aware of serious domestic violence allegations made against one of their players on social media.
Allegations surface on Instagram
The allegations emerged on Wednesday when Dacoda Nichole Jones, a former girlfriend of Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice, posted a series of images on Instagram. The photos appeared to show signs of physical abuse.
While Jones did not name Rice directly in her posts, she identified the individual as the father of her children. Jones and Rice, whom the Chiefs selected in the second round of the 2023 NFL draft, share two children together.
The alleged incidents are said to have occurred in Overland Park, Kansas. However, authorities in that suburb have confirmed that no police reports related to these allegations have been filed as of Wednesday night.
Chiefs and NFL respond
In a brief statement released on Wednesday evening, the Kansas City Chiefs organisation said it was aware of the allegations circulating on social media. The team also confirmed it had been in communication with the National Football League regarding the matter.
Notably, the Chiefs' statement did not mention Rashee Rice by name. The franchise concluded its remarks by saying it would have "no further comment at this time."
A troubled season for the young receiver
These latest allegations add to a difficult period for Rice. The receiver missed the first six games of the recent NFL season after serving a suspension. This punishment was related to his involvement in a multi-vehicle crash on a Dallas highway during the 2024 offseason, which left several people injured.
Rice pleaded guilty to third-degree felony charges of collision involving serious bodily injury and racing on a highway causing bodily injury. He was subsequently sentenced to 30 days in jail and five years of probation.
On the field, Rice finished the 2024 season with 53 catches for 571 yards and five touchdowns. His team, the Kansas City Chiefs, endured a disappointing campaign, finishing with a 6-11 record and missing the playoffs for the first time in ten years.
The NFL is likely to review the situation under its personal conduct policy, which applies to all league personnel regardless of whether criminal charges are filed.
