Chiefs Respond to Lawsuit Alleging Abuse by Rashee Rice

Wide receiver accused of violent behavior towards longtime partner and mother of his children

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The Kansas City Chiefs have released a statement acknowledging a civil lawsuit filed against their wide receiver Rashee Rice by his former partner Dacoda Jones. The lawsuit alleges Rice engaged in abuse, including throwing objects, punching walls, and breaking furniture, that caused physical injuries to Jones, including while she was pregnant. The NFL has launched an investigation into the matter under the league's personal conduct policy.

Why it matters

Allegations of domestic abuse against NFL players are a serious issue that the league has struggled to address effectively. This case raises concerns about player conduct and the league's ability to properly investigate and discipline players accused of such behavior.

The details

According to the lawsuit, Jones claims Rice subjected her to 'violent and abusive behaviors' from December 2023 to July 2025, including throwing objects at her, punching walls, and breaking furniture, which caused her physical injuries like bleeding, swelling, and bruising. The abuse allegedly occurred even while Jones was pregnant with Rice's children.

  • The lawsuit was filed on February 18, 2026.
  • Jones had previously made the allegations public on Instagram in January 2026, prompting an NFL investigation.
  • Police in Overland Park, Kansas responded to a call at Rice's home in 2024 but no abuse report was filed.

The players

Rashee Rice

Wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs who is accused of domestic abuse in a civil lawsuit filed by his former partner.

Dacoda Jones

The 'longtime partner and mother of [Rice's] children' who filed the civil lawsuit alleging abuse by Rice.

National Football League (NFL)

The professional American football league that has launched an investigation into the allegations against Rice under its personal conduct policy.

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What’s next

The NFL's investigation into the allegations against Rashee Rice is still active and will likely continue as the civil lawsuit proceeds through the court system.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges the NFL faces in properly addressing allegations of domestic abuse by its players. The league's personal conduct policy and investigative process will again be scrutinized as it handles this sensitive situation.