USC Football: Brenden Rice Open to Idea of Joining Father's Team
Like father, like son?
USC Trojan receiver Brenden Rice is getting ready for the 2024 NFL Draft and revealed he could be open to playing for the same team as his father, Jerry Rice.
"Honestly, I just hope I go into the right situation," Brenden said when asked about the possibility of joining the 49ers. "If the 49ers is the perfect situation for me to go ahead and battle for a top position on that team, then most definitely. I'm prepared for it."
It's definitely a possibility that the 49ers could draft Brenden. Though the 49ers have one of the final two picks in the first round, Brenden is projected to be a mid-round pick, which gives the 49ers a better chance of drafting him, especially if they decide to pursue a wide receiver in the draft.
Brenden has also expressed interest in playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers since he is a huge fan of wide receiver Mike Evans.
During his final season at USC, Brenden recorded 45 receptions for 791 yards and 12 touchdowns for an average of 17.6 yards per catch. Brenden caught over one-third of Caleb Williams' touchdown passes in 2023 and was a consistent threat for the Trojans.
Of course, if Brenden goes to the 49ers, he will have some legacy to follow. Jerry is considered by many to be the greatest of all time among all wide receivers, and even of all NFL players. Jerry helped the 49ers win three Super Bowls and is one of the most accomplished players in both 49ers and NFL history.
Jerry is a former Super Bowl MVP, two-time AP Offensive Player of the Year, a ten-time first-team All-Pro, and the NFL career leader in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. His career records are among the most unbeatable in the NFL.
Though Brenden Rice will not have those expectations when he enters the NFL, his name will certainly follow him throughout his career.