The Kansas City Chiefs are making final preparations for another championship run, but the path ahead won’t be without obstacles. As the defending AFC champions gear up for their season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers in Brazil on September 5, several storylines are capturing fan attention.

Rashee Rice Suspension Casts Shadow Over Offense

The biggest news hitting Chiefs Kingdom is the six-game suspension of wide receiver Rashee Rice. The NFL announced Rice will miss the first six games of the 2025 season for violating the personal conduct policy stemming from a March 2024 car crash in Dallas. Rice will be eligible to return for the Week 7 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders on October 13.

The suspension removes a key offensive weapon, as Rice was expected to be the team’s top receiver. Patrick Mahomes expressed confidence in the remaining receiving corps, saying the team prepared for other players to step up. Xavier Worthy, Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, and JuJu Smith-Schuster will need to fill the void alongside rookie Jalen Royals.

Roster Moves and Training Camp Highlights

The Chiefs made several surprising roster cuts, releasing running back Carson Steele, safety Mike Edwards, and tight end Robert Tonyan. All seven of their 2025 draft picks made the final roster, including first-round left tackle Josh Simmons, who impressed during training camp at Missouri Western State University.

Despite losing the Super Bowl to Philadelphia, expectations remain high for another deep playoff run as the Chiefs pursue their tenth consecutive AFC West division title.