The Kansas City Chiefs are hoping for a more explosive offense in 2026, but as analyst Rich Eisen believes, Rashee Rice's availability could be a major factor.

During a recent episode of The Rich Eisen Show, Eisen discussed whether the Chiefs can get their passing game back to its best.

"I mean, this guy has been nothing but a disappointment with his availability, and his off-the-field decisions are a very light-touch way to put it with Rashee Rice," said Rich Eisen on July 29.

Rice missed the Chiefs' voluntary offseason workouts and mandatory minicamp while serving a sentence. He also missed the first six games of the 2025 season because of a suspension.

After missing just one game in his rookie year, he has now appeared in just 12 regular-season games since 2024

"It's a simple question because everybody's wondering about the Kansas City Chiefs offense: can they be explosive or not?" said Rich Eisen on July 29, according to Chiefs Wire. "Can they have that explosive passing game again? It all depends on if they can trust and count on Rashee Rice."

When he returned, Rice finished 2025 with 53 catches for 571 yards and five touchdowns, averaging 10.8 yards per reception.

The Chiefs have other options at receiver, including Xavier Worthy and Tyquan Thornton, along with several younger players competing for opportunities.

"Can they get him on the field and keep him on the field, and will he be able to keep himself on the damn field?" Eisen added.

For Kansas City. Rice's availability could go a long way toward shaping what the offense looks like in 2026.

Could this AFC West difference matter in 2026?

Denver made a big bringing in Jaylen Waddle, who joins Courtland Sutton at the top of the group. The two have combined for six 1,000-yard seasons, while Pat Bryant also continues to make progress.

The Broncos still have Troy Franklin and Marvin Mims Jr. in the mix, giving the team more options as camp continues.

Kansas City has more uncertainty at receiver. Rashee Rice is working his way back from an offseason knee injury, while Xavier Worthy is currently dealing with a shoulder injury.

"Rashee Rice is still working his way back from offseason knee debridement surgery, and his continued off-the-field struggles make him too great a wild card to lock in as a dependable volume target," Chiefs expert Matt Conner said, according to Predominantly Orange.

With Patrick Mahomes returning from a knee injury, Kansas City will need its receiver to stay healthy and contribute.

Do you think the Chiefs can get their passing game back on track with Rice in the lineup? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Written by

Debanjali Rakshit

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote