Have the Chiefs finally found a go-to wide receiver for Patrick Mahomes in 2023?
Second-round rookie Rashee Rice had a proverbial breakout game on Sunday, catching eight passes for 107 yards with a touchdown.
That easily set new single-game highs in catches and yards for the young receiver out of SMU.
Speaking to the media on Monday, head coach Andy Reid said Rice is getting better every week.
“[H]e’s working to be more Patrick friendly,” Reid said, via transcript from the team. “There’s a lot that goes into that when you say something like that and a lot of it is just playing. Being willing to fit your game into the offense’s game and how Patrick sees things. He’s done a nice job of being open that away, listening and deciphering what defenses work with what routes and how to manipulate that.”
Reid noted that tight end Travis Kelce has been a good example for Rice to follow when it comes to being available for Mahomes.
But Mahomes has also made it a point to work with Rice during some of the lighter times in practice, like special teams drills.
“They talk through things, then they run routes [and say], ’This is the look where I’m seeing you on this route against this coverage,’” Reid said. “They spend time with each other there and then off the field likewise, for meetings they keep an open communication there. So, it’s something that is needed, especially with a young receiver.
“He’s getting better every week. He’s getting a little bit more production, yes, but also a few more plays and opportunities to get in the game.”
Rice is second on the team with 44 catches and 527 receiving yards. He’s now tied with Kelce for the team lead with five touchdown receptions.
If Rice can become that reliable second option that Kansas City’s offense has lacked throughout 2023, it’ll be a significant boost for the club down the stretch and into January.
