Cam Newton offers blunt warning to Rashee Rice

Aug 22, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) warms up prior to the start of a game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

Cam Newton has some brutally honest advice for Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice amid Rice’s off-field issues this offseason.

In his latest “4th and 1” podcast, Newton warned Rice that he needs to fix his behavior off the field, because the Chiefs will not view the wide receiver as indispensible.

“What you want to do it for? You got family to take care of,” Newton said. “Keep that s–t in perspective. Keep the main thing the main thing. You’re out here punching photographers and driving reckless. I know you’re young, but bro, you’re responsible for too much s–t to have that be where you put your hat on. ‘Oh, he young. He’ll get it.’ By the time he get it, it’s going to be over with. And how many times do we see this?

“I will tell you this. There’s not a person in the NFL, Patrick Mahomes included — the league don’t need you, bro. Trust me. They do not need you.”

Newton does know about getting involved in some unsavory things off the field, though he had no issues during his NFL career. He is certainly correct that if Rice cannot stay out of trouble, the Chiefs and the NFL will not resist moving on from him.

Rice’s immediate future with the Chiefs is in some doubt. He is facing felony charges over his role in a car crash, and was more recently accused of assaulting a photographer at a nightclub. The NFL may bring significant discipline against him no matter what happens legally.