Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice (4) runs the ball against the Miami Dolphins during the second half of the 2024 AFC wild card game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

Latest Chiefs injury update puts spotlight on rookie WR in AFC Championship Game

By Eric Smithling | Last updated 1/27/24

For the second year in a row, the Chiefs need a rookie, this time wide receiver Rashee Rice, to step up if they're going to make the Super Bowl.

On Saturday, wide receiver Kadarius Toney (hip/personal) was ruled out, which considering his multiple miscues this season, isn't a major loss. Rice came on strong during the second half of the season, but a road AFC championship game will be the biggest stage and most hostile environment he's played in this season.

He shared his excitement about the matchup following the divisional round, telling KSHB sports anchor McKenzie Nelson he was "ready" for the opportunity.

Chiefs rookie Rashee Rice is headed to his first AFC Championship game‼️

"I'm ready to get there." #ChiefsKingdom @KSHB41 pic.twitter.com/u1AWBQAyab
— McKenzie Nelson (@McKenzieMNelson) January 22, 2024

Last year, running back Isiah Pacheco and wide receiver Skyy Moore scored touchdowns in the Super Bowl as rookies. Pacheco, in particular, was a key contributor in the playoffs with 43 touches for 262 yards.

After a slow start this season, Rice emerged as quarterback Patrick Mahomes' most trusted target at wide receiver during the second half of the year. In Rice's first nine games, he had 41 targets, 32 receptions, 378 yards and three touchdowns. During his last nine games (including the postseason), Rice has 77 targets, 59 receptions, 737 yards and four touchdowns.

Kansas City enters the AFC title game weakened by injuries. Starting guard Joe Thuney (pectoral) was ruled out on Friday, as was Moore (knee). Pacheco (ankle/toe) is questionable.

As strong as the Mahomes-Travis Kelce connection is, Kelce can't be the only one to make plays for the two-time league MVP; based on how Rice has played recently, he won't be.

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