The Kansas City Chiefs and fantasy football managers have suffered a major blow with the placement of second-year running back Isiah Pacheco on injured reserve due to a fractured fibula. Reports indicate that the talented young rusher will recover from the setback and miss 6–8 weeks.
Pacheco, who emerged as the Chiefs’ leadback last season, suffered the injury during Kansas City’s Week 2 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. The Chiefs have officially placed him on Injured Reserve, ensuring his absence for the next four games.
“I could return this season or next season,” Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said, declining to provide a specific timeline for Pacheco’s return. Through the first two weeks, Pacheco had been an integral part of the Chiefs’ offense, rushing for 135 yards and a touchdown on 34 carries. He also caught 7 passes for an additional 54 yards, showcasing his well-rounded skill set.
With Pacheco unavailable, the Chiefs will turn to a committee approach in the backfield. The Chiefs expect undrafted rookie Carson Steele and veteran Samaje Perine to handle the majority of the carries, and they have also signed former Chief Kareem Hunt to the practice squad.
Hunt, a Pro Bowler during his time in Kansas City, could provide a boost if elevated to the active roster. However, the Chiefs have several options to replace Pacheco’s production, including the potential return of Clyde Edwards-Helaire from the non-football illness list in Week 5.
The loss of Pacheco is a significant blow, both for the Chiefs’ offense and for fantasy managers who were counting on the young running back’s breakout season. Pacheco’s absence will test the team’s depth at the position. “Pacheco was well on his way to a career year,” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported. “The Chiefs will sorely miss his hard-charging running style.”
As the Chiefs prepare to face the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday, the status of their backfield will be a key storyline to monitor. Fans and fantasy enthusiasts alike will be eager to see how the team adjusts in Pacheco’s absence and how soon he can return to the field and reclaim his role as a centerpiece of the Kansas City offense.