NFL Declines to Discipline Chiefs WR Rashee Rice After Domestic Violence Claim

The league says there was 'insufficient evidence' to support the allegations made by Rice's ex-girlfriend.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 4:48pm

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The NFL will not discipline Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice after an investigation into domestic violence allegations made by his ex-girlfriend, Dacoda Jones. The league said there was 'insufficient evidence to support a finding that he violated the personal conduct policy.'

Why it matters

The decision not to discipline Rice raises concerns about the NFL's handling of domestic violence cases and whether the league is doing enough to hold players accountable. It also highlights the challenges victims face in proving abuse allegations, especially when high-profile athletes are involved.

The details

Jones accused Rice of physically assaulting her multiple times over a year-and-a-half period, causing injuries including bleeding and bruising. She filed a lawsuit in February 2025 claiming Rice 'engaged in violent and abusive behaviors' towards her, including grabbing, choking, and hitting her. However, the NFL said its months-long investigation found 'insufficient evidence' to support the allegations.

  • In January 2025, Jones posted photos on Instagram alleging abuse from the father of her children, though she did not name Rice directly.
  • In February 2025, Jones filed a lawsuit against Rice making the domestic violence allegations.
  • On April 3, 2026, the NFL announced it would not discipline Rice following its investigation.

The players

Rashee Rice

A 25-year-old wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs who was accused of domestic violence by his ex-girlfriend.

Dacoda Jones

The ex-girlfriend of Rashee Rice who accused him of physically assaulting her multiple times over a year-and-a-half period.

Sean Lindsey

The attorney representing Rashee Rice, who thanked the NFL for its 'thorough investigation' into the allegations.

Travis Kelce

A teammate of Rashee Rice on the Kansas City Chiefs who wore a custom t-shirt in support of Rice after his arrest in 2024.

Tyquan Thornton

Another Kansas City Chiefs teammate who wore a custom t-shirt in support of Rashee Rice after his 2024 arrest.

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What they’re saying

“'Mr. Rice wants to thank the NFL for their thorough investigation, and looks forward to the start of the 2026-27 NFL season.'”

— Sean Lindsey, Attorney for Rashee Rice

“'Talk [and] T-shirts are cheap. If Kelce and Thornton truly believed in Rashee, they'd loan him the money to pay his victims. But since they won't do that, maybe they can at least be better role models by wearing a T-shirt with an important public service warning: 'Flee 4!''”

— Marc Lenahan, Attorney for the woman injured in Rice's 2024 car crash

What’s next

The NFL's decision not to discipline Rice is likely to face continued scrutiny and criticism from advocates for domestic violence victims. It remains to be seen if Rice will face any other legal or professional consequences related to the allegations.

The takeaway

The NFL's handling of the Rashee Rice domestic violence case highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing allegations of abuse against high-profile athletes. The decision not to discipline Rice, despite the serious nature of the claims, raises questions about the league's commitment to holding players accountable and protecting victims.