Chiefs WR Rashee Rice is facing civil assault charges in Texas. Rice's ex-girlfriend, Dacoda Jones, alleges that he assaulted her over an 18-month span from 2023 to 2025 and is seeking over $1 million in damages. Rice, through his attorney, has denied the allegations. "On October 9th, 2025, well after the parties' relationship had ended, Ms. Jones stated under penalty of perjury in a sworn Affidavit for Non-Prosecution that 'Mr. Rice and I had a verbal argument, but he did not punch me,'" Rice's attorney said in a statement.
What They're Saying
The lawsuit: "Rice has grabbed, choked, strangled, pushed, thrown, scratched, hit and headbutted Ms. [Dacoda] Jones, as well as hit her with inanimate objects."
Statement from Sean Lindsey, Rice's attorney: "On October 9th, 2025, well after the parties' relationship had ended, Ms. Jones stated under penalty of perjury in a sworn Affidavit of 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 and have no further comment at this time."
Chiefs statement: "The club is aware [of the lawsuit] and remains in communication with the National Football League."
Jones in an Instagram post that's been deleted: "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!"
2026 Fantasy Football Impact
We’ll see how this unfolds over the offseason. The league said Wednesday that the matter “remains under review.”
It’s worth noting that the NFL rarely disciplines players solely for civil lawsuits. What makes Rice’s situation different is his track record of prior off-field trouble:
- A March 2024 hit-and-run in Dallas that resulted in two third-degree felony charges and a six-game suspension.
- Separate 2024 assault allegations that were investigated by Dallas police, although no charges were filed.
Rice’s short- and long-term fantasy value is once again in limbo. He carries elevated risk in 2026 best ball and redraft leagues until this situation is resolved — though that risk could push his ADP into discount territory.
Dynasty Impact
The risk profile is even more concerning in dynasty formats, given Rice’s pattern of off-field issues since entering the league. He’s worth gauging the market on now — and it may be prudent to sell even at 70–80 cents on the dollar.