USC’s star wide receiver Brenden Rice, son of NFL legend Jerry Rice, isn’t just another prospect in the loaded 2024 NFL Draft. With his father’s watchful eye at the Combine, Brenden’s journey takes on a special dimension. Sure, there are many draft hopefuls with NFL dads, but few carry the weight of a legacy as rich as Jerry Rice’s. Here’s why.

The elder Rice, a 20-season wide receiver with 3 Super Bowl rings for the 49ers, set an unmatched standard. Brenden understands the pressure. He wants to carve his own path in the NFL, but the comparisons and criticisms are inevitable. However, the dad WR is not allowing room for attackers, as he assumed the critic’s role in the recent Combine.

Brenden Rice playfully responds to his dad’s criticism

With his impressive showing, USC Trojan‘s Brenden Rice turned heads at the NFL Combine. During an interview with NFL Total Access, the interviewer mentioned, “A couple of legends happen to stop by, including one that you know very well who was willing to critique your performance.” As expected, commentators and legends praised Brenden’s powerful hands and run, but the critique came from none other than his father, Jerry Rice. “But he gotta drag that backfoot,” Jerry said, offering the only criticism of his son’s performance. “Pops you a hater,” Brenden responded. Despite the playful jab, Brenden acknowledged his father’s constant drive. “He’s always gonna have some type of criticism, especially as a father and just as being that figure in my life,” he said. Brenden takes pride in his father’s legacy and embraces his critical approach.

While the NFL is filled with father-son duos — Jeremiah Trotter Jr. (son of Eagles LB Jeremiah Trotter), Kris Jenkins (son of Panthers/Jets DL Kris Jenkins Sr), and Frank Gore Jr. (son of rushing legend Frank Gore) — the Rice story holds a special significance. Can Brenden carve his path and even outshine his legendary father’s achievements?

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Brenden is carving his own NFL path just like his legendary dad

Brenden Rice was quite impressive at the Combine as he clocked a blistering 4.51-second 40-yard dash, exceeding expectations (though slightly slower than some anticipated). This even surpassed his legendary dad, Jerry Rice. Jerry’s official 40-yard dash time at the 1985 NFL Combine remains a bit of a mystery. Reports range from 4.6 seconds, according to his then-coach Bill Walsh, to a slower 4.71 seconds. While Jerry wasn’t known for pure speed, he excelled at “playing fast.”

“Run like your father”: USC’s Brenden Makes Waves at NFL Combine, Fans Sense Shades of Legend Jerry Rice

Meanwhile, Brenden combines decent speed with solid hands and extension, making him a threat on the field. While he might have some limitations, his overall performance projects him as a potential early backup with room to grow. However, talent isn’t everything; there’s more to the game. If he lands on a winning team like the 49ers or the Chiefs, they can help him shine fast. But a team that’s struggling might slow him down. Only time will tell if he can make his mark, maybe even be better than his dad. Share your thoughts on this in the comments below.

NFL Combine: Brendan Rice Prioritizes Father Jerry’s 49ers Over His Dream Destination