(Video) Rashee Rice’s Concerns About Travis Kelce Nearly Became a Reality After Chiefs Super Bowl LIX Defeat

Rashee Rice was concerned that Travis Kelce would retire after losing the Super Bowl LIX to the Eagles.

(Video) Rashee Rice’s Concerns About Travis Kelce Nearly Became a Reality After Chiefs Super Bowl LIX Defeat

Patrick Mahomes, Rashee Rice and Travis Kelce (Image via IMAGO)

Rashee Rice had his heart in his mouth after the Kansas City Chiefs lost Super Bowl LIX in February. The young wide receiver feared he may no longer get the chance to share the locker room with 10x Pro Bowler tight end Travis Kelce.

Kelce, now 35, was on the verge of announcing his retirement like his older brother after the 40-22 upset at the hands of the Philadelphia Eagles in New Orleans. Rice wanted to continue learning from Kelce, but was genuinely concerned that the 3x Super Bowl winner might leave the game.

During an interview with Chancellor Johnson, Rice spoke about his fear.

Yeah, I was really concerned, [I am] not gonna lie. That’s Trav [Kelce], but that’s like me getting hurt last year. It’s like kind of a wake-up call. I really wanted him to come back. Kinda realize the guys you got to play with once it’s all over. So I get to actually be in my footsteps right now.

Rashee Rice said

A star veteran of the game, Kelce took Rice under his wing after the Chiefs drafted him in 2023. His guidance paid dividends as Rice finished near the top end of the Offensive Rookie of the Year voting.

Fans expected more of the same in year two. However, an unfortunate collision with quarterback Patrick Mahomes in the Week 4 game against the Chargers derailed Rice’s season.

The 25-year-old underwent surgery to repair his LCL and hamstring. He spent the entire year recovering from the injury while dealing with off-the-field issues.

The Chiefs, meanwhile, qualified for their fourth straight Super Bowl and had the rare opportunity of a three-peat, but the Eagles rained on their parade.

Murmurs grew about Kelce’s retirement shortly after the defeat. The football gods listened to Rice’s prayers, and Kelce decided to return for the 2025 NFL season, even though his girlfriend wanted him to retire and spend more time with her.

Did Rashee Rice have a hand in Travis Kelce postponing his retirement?

This wasn’t the first time the media questioned Rice about Kelce’s retirement. Previously, NFL legend Brandon Marshall popped the question when the third-year receiver attended as the special guest on Revolt.

(Video) Rashee Rice's Concerns about Travis Kelce Nearly Became a Reality After Chiefs Super Bowl LIX Defeat
Rashee Rice and Travis Kelce (Image via IMAGO)

Rice shocked everyone by claiming that he was the reason Travis Kelce agreed to play another season for the Chiefs.

I ain’t gonna lie to y’all, I’m 95% of the reason he [Travis Kelce] ain’t retiring. I told him he can’t go out like that [and] I’m gonna make sure we get that next year. He was finna hang it up. I’m pretty sure he was gonna hang it up. And I’m like, ‘Bro, we can’t go out like that.’ I texted him… He’s like, ‘You really got me thinking about it. I really appreciate you reaching out to me.

Rashee Rice told Brandon Marshall

When Kelce was asked about the reason for his return in 2025, he pointed out that the Super Bowl loss and the failure to secure the NFL’s first-ever three-peat motivated him to keep playing football.

I got a real bad taste in my mouth with how I played in that last game and with how I got the guys ready for battle. I can’t go out like that!!!!

Travis Kelce said

Kelce finished his 12th season in the NFL with 97 receptions for 823 yards and 3 touchdowns. According to reports, he lost nearly 25 pounds in the offseason and will soon attend the Chiefs’ training camp.

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