The Kansas City Chiefs could look to this veteran as a replacement for Rashee Rice in a worst-case scenario

The car accident involving Rashee Rice has left the Kansas City Chiefs facing a challenging situation. While the incident is still under investigation, head coach Andy Reid might be already considering alternatives in case Rice is unavailable for the 2023 season. Some analysts believe they know who the Chiefs’ Plan B could be.

On March 30, Rice became the main suspect in a hit-and-run incident in Dallas, Texas. The rookie was driving a Lamborghini that was involved in a crash with four other vehicles, according to local police.

While no charges have been filed yet, Rice could potentially face trial. If convicted, the Chiefs receiver could be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison.

Given this scenario, Reid and the team cannot afford to wait and must look to take advantage of the remaining weeks of free agency to find a replacement for Rice. This is where Tyler Boyd comes in.

Boyd as Rice’s replacement

Rashee Rice was charged with:

• Six counts of collision involving bodily injury.

• One count of collision involving serious bodily injury.

• One count of aggravated assault.

They’re throwing the book at him, as they should. He’ll learn from this. pic.twitter.com/gJAEMIr5iD

— fatty patty (@theonlydyl_) April 10, 2024

Tyler Boyd is entering his ninth year as a professional. Selected in the second round of the 2016 Draft, the University of Pittsburgh graduate has spent his entire career with the Cincinnati Bengals, who allowed him to enter free agency this offseason.

Although 2023 wasn’t his best year, he caught 67 passes for 667 yards and two touchdowns. In his career, he has amassed 513 catches, 6,000 yards, and 31 touchdowns.

Boyd may not be the youngest option in free agency, but he could serve as a solid alternative for Mahomes and a reliable backup for tight end Travis Kelce. Acquiring Boyd would likely come at a premium, but it could be a worthwhile investment if the worst-case scenario for Rice materializes.

Reid’s other options

The throw, the catch, the sideline reaction #ProBowlVote x Tyler Boyd pic.twitter.com/tzYqeGoWsJ

— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) December 17, 2023

If Reid and offensive coordinator Matthew Nagy decide against pursuing Boyd, their alternative would be to select a receiver in the 2024 draft. Thus far, analysts believe they are leaning towards selecting a defensive back, with cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. being the leading candidate.

Should the Chiefs opt for a receiver, their top choices-Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers, and Rome Odunze-would likely be out of reach, as they have the 32nd pick this year.

Without a trade to acquire any of the top three receivers, the Chiefs would likely choose between Brian Thomas Jr., Adonai Mitchell, or Ladd McConkey, provided they are still available.

Rice’s case has yet to be resolved, but the Chiefs still have time to address the issue and avoid any potential obstacles to achieving an unprecedented three-peat, which remains within their grasp.