Three-time Super Bowl champion Jerry Rice startled onlookers at a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe when he unleashed a verbal tirade on two reporters, threatening to get physical.
The 61-year-old NFL legend, known for his illustrious career with the San Francisco 49ers, was attending the American Century Championship alongside other prominent athletes when the incident occurred.
According to reports, two Kansas City-based media members approached Rice with questions about the Chiefs’ 2024 wide receiving options, specifically asking if Patrick Mahomes’ wideouts were “good enough to win another Super Bowl.”
Initially, Rice turned away from the reporters after a brief exchange. However, viral footage captured and shared on social media shows Rice abruptly turning back and confronting the duo, getting up close and personal.
In the heated moment, Rice, a Pro Football Hall of Famer, was heard shouting at one of the reporters, “I will mess you up!” He then issued a challenge, saying, “If you want some, come get some!” before walking away.
Former NFL star Jerry Rice smiles on the 12th tee at the American Century Championship
The reporters, taken aback by the outburst, described the encounter as “the craziest thing that’s ever happened” to them.
However, Rice later shared his perspective with TMZ, explaining that he perceived the reporters’ questions as a slight against his beloved Niners. Having played 16 seasons with the 49ers, Rice took the query as a personal insult, believing the reporters were intentionally goading him.
It’s worth noting that the 49ers suffered a narrow loss to the Chiefs in Super Bowl LVIII earlier this year, which may have added to Rice’s sensitivity on the matter.
Rice, a two-time Offensive Player of the Year, won three Super Bowls during his 16 years with the Niners
Rice, a two-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year, passionately defended his former team, stating, “I’m going to defend the San Francisco 49ers. This is my history.”
At the American Century Championship, Rice tied for 22nd place with Lakers star Austin Reaves. Additionally, Rice’s son, Brenden, who also plays wide receiver, was recently drafted by the LA Chargers in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Rice’s oldest son, Jerry Rice Jr., had a brief stint in the NFL as well, signing with the Washington Commanders in 2014 before being waived due to an injury.