Travis Kelce criticized for supporting teammate involved in serious crash

In March 2024, Rashee Rice, a wide receiver with the Kansas City Chiefs, was involved in a serious street-racing incident in Dallas, Texas. Driving a rented Lamborghini at dangerously high speeds, Rice crashed into several vehicles, resulting in injuries to multiple passengers. After this incident, Rice fled the scene on foot, compounding his legal troubles. He ultimately pleaded guilty to two felony charges related to the crash, leading to a sentence that included five years of probation and a 30-day jail term. As a consequence of his actions, he accepted a six-game suspension from the NFL that began in the 2025 season. On September 15, 2025, Travis Kelce, alongside teammate Ty'Quan Thornton, wore shirts that read “Free 4” in support of Rice during warmups before a game against the Philadelphia Eagles. The gesture, which included images of Rice, sparked significant backlash from fans and the public, who expressed outrage over advocating for someone responsible for a crash causing serious injury. Public sentiment was highly critical, with many emphasizing the gravity of Rice's actions and the potential for loss of life in the crash, where he was reported driving nearly 120 mph.  The support from Kelce and Thornton raised questions about accountability within the team and the NFL's handling of personal conduct policies. Following the incident, victims' advocates expressed serious concern over Rice's perceived lack of remorse and accountability. Legal representatives of crash victims, particularly March Lenahan, condemned the players’ display of support, highlighting Rice’s actions and the serious injuries caused, which still resonate within the community. Furthermore, Lenahan noted that Rice has not compensated victims despite the significant settlement owed, leading to further public outcry over the message sent by the players’ endorsement. As the Kansas City Chiefs faced their first two losses of the season without Rice, the situation has intensified discussions on player behavior, the culture surrounding professional athletes, and the implications of their actions off the field. Fans and analysts alike are debating the balance between supporting teammates and the responsibilities they hold toward public safety and the legal consequences of their actions. As the team looks ahead to Rice's return in Week 7 during a matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders, the controversy surrounding his actions and the support shown by his teammates poses larger questions about the moral responsibilities of athletes in the public eye.