Chiefs' Rashee Rice Accused of Assault, Abuse by Mother of His Children in Lawsuit

The plaintiff is seeking over $1 million in damages in the civil lawsuit, according to her attorney.

Feb. 22, 2026 at 8:47am

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A civil lawsuit was filed against Kansas City Chiefs receiver Rashee Rice this week by the mother of Rice's two children, Dacoda Jones, alleging that he previously assaulted her between December 2023 and July 2025, causing 'severe and permanent injuries'. Jones is seeking over $1 million in monetary damages through her attorney Ron Estefan.

Why it matters

This lawsuit raises serious concerns about domestic violence allegations against a high-profile NFL player, which could have significant implications for Rice's professional career and public image if the claims are substantiated. The case also highlights the challenges of addressing intimate partner abuse, especially when it involves public figures.

The details

In the civil suit filed in Dallas County, Texas, Jones alleges that Rice strangled her during a December 2023 incident in Victory Park, Texas, and that between 2023 and 2025, Rice 'grabbed, choked, strangled, pushed, thrown, scratched, hit and headbutted Ms. Jones, as well as hit her with inanimate objects.' The lawsuit also claims Rice engaged in other violent behaviors, including 'throwing objects, destroying property, punching walls, and breaking furniture, as well as locking her out in the middle of the night', many of which allegedly occurred while Jones was pregnant.

  • In December 2023, the lawsuit alleges Rice strangled Jones in their home in Victory Park, Texas.
  • Between 2023 and 2025, the lawsuit claims Rice assaulted Jones on multiple occasions.

The players

Rashee Rice

A wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs who is accused of assaulting the mother of his children, Dacoda Jones, in a civil lawsuit.

Dacoda Jones

The mother of Rashee Rice's two children, who has filed a civil lawsuit against Rice alleging he assaulted her between December 2023 and July 2025.

Ron Estefan

The attorney representing Dacoda Jones in the civil lawsuit against Rashee Rice.

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What they’re saying

“I'm so tired of keeping quiet I'm so tired of protecting his image. I've been through too much in a span of 8 years and I've had ENOUGH! I've dealt with abuse for years, me and this man decided to break up a couple months ago and since then it's been nothing but hell.”

— Dacoda Jones

What’s next

The NFL has said the matter remains under review, and it's unclear if Rice will face any disciplinary action from the league.

The takeaway

This lawsuit highlights the ongoing challenge of addressing domestic violence allegations, especially when they involve high-profile athletes. The case will likely have significant implications for Rice's career and public image, and it underscores the need for continued vigilance and support for victims of intimate partner abuse.