NFL Clears Chiefs' Rashee Rice of Misconduct After Abuse Probe

League says 'insufficient evidence' to discipline wide receiver over ex-girlfriend's allegations

Apr. 4, 2026 at 5:44am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a football player's body broken into sharp, angular planes of navy, green, and orange, conveying the complex and multi-faceted nature of the NFL's investigation into player misconduct allegations.An abstract, deconstructed visual interpretation of the NFL's investigation into allegations against a star player, highlighting the complexities of off-field misconduct cases.Kansas City Today

The NFL has concluded its investigation into Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice and determined he did not violate the league's personal conduct policy, despite accusations of domestic abuse from his ex-girlfriend. The league said there was 'insufficient evidence' to support disciplinary action against the 25-year-old player.

Why it matters

The case highlights the challenges the NFL faces in investigating and adjudicating allegations of off-field misconduct by players, especially when criminal charges are not filed. The league's handling of such sensitive issues has come under scrutiny in recent years.

The details

Rice's ex-girlfriend, Dacoda Jones, had alleged prolonged domestic abuse and filed a lawsuit seeking over $1 million in damages. However, the NFL said its investigation found no violations of league policy. Rice's attorney cited a sworn statement from Jones in which she said 'Mr. Rice and I had a verbal argument, but he did not punch me.' The league said the case is now closed.

  • In January 2026, Jones posted photos on social media alleging abuse.
  • In February 2026, Jones filed a lawsuit against Rice in Texas.
  • On April 3, 2026, the NFL announced the conclusion of its investigation.

The players

Rashee Rice

A 25-year-old wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs who was investigated by the NFL over domestic abuse allegations from his ex-girlfriend.

Dacoda Jones

Rice's ex-girlfriend who accused him of domestic abuse and filed a lawsuit seeking over $1 million in damages.

Sean Lindsey

Rashee Rice's attorney, who disputed the claims in Jones' lawsuit.

Theodore Knox

A former teammate of Rice's at SMU who was involved in a high-speed crash with Rice in 2024 that resulted in Rice's suspension.

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What they’re saying

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

— Sean Lindsey, Rashee Rice's attorney

“On Oct. 9, 2025, well after the parties' relationship had ended, Ms. Jones stated under penalty of perjury in an affidavit for non-prosecution that 'Mr. Rice and I had a verbal argument, but he did not punch me.' We will allow the legal process to run its course.”

— Sean Lindsey, Rashee Rice's attorney

What’s next

The lawsuit filed by Dacoda Jones against Rashee Rice is still pending in Texas court.

The takeaway

The NFL's investigation and decision in the Rashee Rice case highlights the league's ongoing challenges in navigating allegations of off-field misconduct, especially when criminal charges are not filed. The case underscores the need for more transparent and consistent policies around player discipline.