Who Should I Start? Cooper Kupp or Rashee Rice

Saturday, March 14, 12:58 PM

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice has struggled with availability over the last two seasons, and he's likely hoping to re-find the productivity he demonstrated as a rookie back in 2023. Over the last two years, Rice has been held to just 12 total games due to injury and suspension. He managed to tally 571 yards and five touchdowns across eight games in 2025, but he only finished as the WR40 in PPR leagues. By the time he returned after his eight-week suspension, it was too late for many of his fantasy managers to get back into contention. Being available for 17 games in 2026 would be ideal for Rice and his fantasy managers, as he has the ability to produce 1,000 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. Unfortunately, there's still plenty of risk associated with drafting him. Rice faces an unresolved lawsuit for domestic violence and could end up being suspended again. Much like last year, we could see Rice's status remain in limbo deep into the summer, leaving plenty of uncertainty and doubt for fantasy managers. There's top-24 upside here if Rice plays 17 games, but we could also see a scenario where he misses half the year once again.