The Chiefs get a major boost for the 2024 season as Rashee Rice & Josh Simmons are set to be healthy for camp. Patrick Mahomes expresses confidence. (June 2025)
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Just as the summer lull begins, Chiefs Kingdom received a jolt of pure optimism on Thursday. The biggest question marks heading into the break are quickly turning into exclamation points, with crucial offensive weapons Rashee Rice and Josh Simmons now expected to be fully ready for training camp. The positive injury news, coupled with a confident tone from Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid, and the team's defensive leaders, paints a picture of a franchise that isn't just resting on its laurels—it's reloading.
You can feel the energy. Having that continuity on defense, with guys who know the system and trust each other, it's a massive advantage. I feel 100% and I'm ready to lead that charge.
Let's start with the news every fan was waiting for. Both wide receiver Rashee Rice (knee) and first-round rookie tackle Josh Simmons (knee) are on track to be full participants when training camp kicks off. This is massive. Rice is poised to be a central figure in the passing attack, and his availability is non-negotiable for offensive success. Meanwhile, getting Simmons, the mammoth tackle tasked with protecting Patrick Mahomes, a full camp under his belt is critical for gelling with the offensive line. Coach Reid stressed the importance of depth, and getting these two key pieces back at full strength is the first, and most important, step.
On the other side of the ball, the good vibes continued. Linebacker and defensive signal-caller Nick Bolton addressed the media, declaring himself fully healthy after battling injuries late last season. He emphasized the power of continuity, noting how a defense that largely returns intact can play faster and more instinctually. Head Coach Andy Reid echoed this, praising the competitive atmosphere and the leadership of veterans like Bolton in setting the standard for a unit that expects to be dominant again.
While the focus is firmly on 2025, General Manager Brett Veach is always playing chess. The team made a savvy move by signing tight end Geor’Quarius Spivey from the UFL's Houston Roughnecks. While Travis Kelce is still the undisputed king, the move adds another competitive body to a room looking to build depth for the future. Kelce himself spoke about his leadership role and embraced the idea of new competition, a testament to the team-first culture. It's a low-risk, high-reward signing that adds another layer to an already dynamic offense.
One of the most encouraging internal developments came from the secondary. Third-round rookie cornerback Nohl Williams, who admittedly had some 'welcome to the NFL' moments during voluntary OTAs, has reportedly looked like a different player during mandatory minicamp. His improved technique and confidence have caught the eye of the coaching staff, providing a huge boost to the team's defensive depth. In a league where you can never have enough capable corners, Williams' rapid development is a fantastic sign as he battles for a rotational role.
As the Chiefs break for the final time before the real grind begins, the narrative is clear: this team is healthy, focused, and deeper than ever. The injury concerns are fading, young players are stepping up, and the veteran leadership is steering the ship with a steady hand. All the talk of a historic three-peat campaign feels less like a dream and more like a definitive plan. The next time we see them, it will be in St. Joe, and all signs point to a team ready to hit the ground running.
