NFL Clears Rashee Rice After Investigation, Citing Insufficient Evidence

The NFL announced Friday that it has concluded its investigation into Rashee Rice of the Kansas City Chiefs and will not impose any disciplinary action under the league’s personal conduct policy. The league stated there was not enough evidence to support a violation.

The decision follows months of review into allegations made against Rice in a civil lawsuit filed in Dallas County, Texas. The case centers on claims brought by his former girlfriend and the mother of his children, Dacoda Jones.

While the NFL has closed its inquiry, the legal process remains ongoing, with a trial scheduled for June 2026. The league’s conclusion does not impact the separate civil proceedings.

The case has added another layer of scrutiny to Rice’s off-field history, as he continues to navigate legal and disciplinary challenges early in his professional career.

1. NFL Investigation Concludes Without Discipline

In its official statement, the NFL said it found “insufficient evidence” to determine that Rice violated its personal conduct policy. The league’s review included examination of claims, supporting materials, and related legal documents. The investigation stemmed from allegations outlined in a civil lawsuit filed earlier this year. Jones accused Rice of repeated instances of physical abuse spanning from late 2023 through mid-2025. The lawsuit includes detailed allegations describing multiple forms of physical harm and claims that some incidents occurred during her pregnancy. Jones also shared images on social media showing bruising and injuries, which she said reflected ongoing abuse. However, Rice’s legal team has strongly disputed aspects of the allegations, pointing to a sworn affidavit in which Jones stated Rice did not punch her during a verbal dispute. The NFL ultimately concluded the available evidence did not meet its threshold for discipline.

2. Legal Case Continues Amid Disputed Claims

Although the NFL has closed its investigation, the civil lawsuit filed by Jones remains active. The case seeks damages exceeding $1 million and is scheduled to go to trial in June 2026. Rice’s attorney, Sean Lindsey, issued a statement expressing appreciation for the league’s review and indicating the player is focused on moving forward. The legal dispute includes conflicting accounts, with allegations on one side and sworn statements on the other. This contrast will likely be central to the upcoming court proceedings. The NFL’s decision does not determine legal liability, as civil courts operate under different standards of evidence and procedure compared to league investigations.

3. Off-Field History and On-Field Performance

This marks the second straight offseason in which Rice has faced off-field scrutiny. Earlier, he served a six-game suspension in 2025 following legal issues related to a high-speed crash in Dallas. In that incident, Rice pleaded guilty to felony charges after driving at 119 mph, resulting in a multi-vehicle collision that caused injuries. He was sentenced to jail time, probation, and restitution payments. Despite those setbacks, Rice returned to the field during the 2025 season and showed production when available. He recorded 53 receptions for 571 yards and five touchdowns in eight games. However, the Kansas City Chiefs endured a disappointing season, finishing 6–11 and missing the playoffs for the first time in a decade, adding to a turbulent year both on and off the field.