NFL Clears Chiefs' Rashee Rice After Ex-Girlfriend's Abuse Claims

League concludes investigation without finding personal conduct policy violation.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:22pm

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a football game or match, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in deep navy, forest green, and burnt orange tones, conveying the complexity and controversy surrounding the NFL's approach to domestic violence cases.The NFL's handling of domestic violence allegations against its players remains a complex and contentious issue, with the league's investigation process facing continued scrutiny.Kansas City Today

The NFL announced that Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice will not face any discipline after an investigation into allegations of domestic violence made by his ex-girlfriend, Dacoda Jones. The league stated that its probe concluded Rice did not violate the league's personal conduct policy.

Why it matters

Allegations of domestic violence against NFL players have been a major source of controversy for the league in recent years, leading to increased scrutiny and policy changes. The decision not to punish Rice could be seen as a test of the league's commitment to thoroughly investigating such claims.

The details

Jones, Rice's partner of eight years, made several disturbing allegations on social media in January, stating that Rice had been physically abusive toward her, even when she was pregnant. She later filed a lawsuit describing injuries she said she sustained from Rice, including bleeding, swelling, and bruising. However, Rice's lawyer said Jones had stated under penalty of perjury in an affidavit that Rice did not punch her, but that the two had a verbal argument.

  • In January, Jones made the allegations against Rice on social media.
  • A month later, Jones filed a lawsuit describing the alleged injuries.
  • The NFL launched an investigation into the claims in January.
  • On April 3, 2026, the NFL announced the investigation was closed without finding a violation of the personal conduct policy.

The players

Rashee Rice

A wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Dacoda Jones

Rashee Rice's ex-girlfriend of eight years, who accused him of domestic violence.

Sean Lindsey

Rashee Rice's lawyer, who stated that Jones had said Rice did not punch her, but that the two had a verbal argument.

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What they’re saying

“Rashee Rice was thankful for the probe ... and 'looks forward to the start of the 2026-27 NFL season'.”

— Sean Lindsey, Rashee Rice's lawyer

The takeaway

The NFL's decision not to punish Rashee Rice despite the allegations against him highlights the league's continued struggle to address domestic violence issues among its players. While the investigation may have found insufficient evidence, the case underscores the need for the NFL to maintain a robust and transparent process when handling such sensitive matters.