The Kansas City Chiefs face new challenges as they kick off their season, particularly with the recent injury to running back Isiah Pacheco. During their Week 2 game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Pacheco suffered a fractured fibula, which is set to sideline him for 6-8 weeks. This injury occurred when he was tackled awkwardly after attempting a 1-yard run late in the game, leaving him on crutches and wearing a walking boot as he exited the stadium.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Pacheco will miss at least until the Chiefs face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on November 4, 2023. The Chiefs now find themselves needing to adjust their running back rotation to complement superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes during Pacheco's absence. Already down one backup, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who is on the non-football injury list until at least Week 4, the team's depth chart has become thinner.
With Pacheco out, the Chiefs currently have two healthy running backs on the 53-man roster. Samaje Perine is likely to take on more responsibilities following his signing before the season. Perine, an eight-year veteran who has developed as a quality third-down back, has limited experience as the go-to running back but will see plenty of action. The Chiefs' coach Andy Reid may also lean more on undrafted rookie Deneric Prince, who logged nine carries for 27 yards in the first two games, showing potential on early downs.
To bolster their backfield depth, Kansas City signed veteran running back Kareem Hunt to their practice squad. Hunt, who was originally drafted by the Chiefs and led the NFL in rushing yards during his rookie season, has carved out valuable experience during his time with the Cleveland Browns. Although he had been primarily used as a complementary back under Nick Chubb, Hunt’s experience may prove beneficial as the team navigates through Pacheco’s absence.
Fans and analysts alike might rightfully speculate on the future of Isiah Pacheco, especially with major developments on the horizon. Last season, the 23-year-old Pacheco had shown promise with his performance. He rushed for 310 yards on 83 carries and scored one touchdown over seven games. Unfortunately, injuries limited his playing time, but his playoff performance illustrated his capability, where he recorded 37 rushing yards across three games.
Looking toward 2025, if the Chiefs cannot retain Kareem Hunt, Pacheco is expected to take center stage as the main running back. His solid, dependable style offers promise and aligns with the team’s need to strengthen their rushing attack, which lacked consistent performance last season. No running back reached the 1,000-yard mark throughout the previous year, with Patrick Mahomes himself ranking as one of the top rushers on the team—something Kansas City will look to rectify moving forward.
Pacheco’s ability to stay healthy could result in significant growth for him as the Chiefs benefit from his skills. Should head coach Andy Reid and management believe he can avoid injuries, Pacheco’s breakthrough could very well mirror trends seen previously, marking 2025 as his breakout campaign.
The competition is heating up with other AFC West teams like the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers posting strong seasons, indicating the need for Kansas City to bolster their attack successfully. For fans of the Chiefs, the upcoming years hinge on the dynamic between Mahomes and the running game—where Pacheco could become the focal point if he returns to his previous form.
Though it is tough to predict how the depth chart will hold up during Pacheco's recovery, one thing remains evident: his comeback is something to watch closely as the season progresses. Kansas City must find ways to creatively use their existing resources effectively, all the way until Pacheco can take the field again.
With Isiah Pacheco's talent and the form he's shown when healthy, Chiefs supporters can look forward to his return and expect him to regain the momentum he had and possibly excel past it.