The Kansas City Chiefs are off to a 10-1 start to the regular season, despite missing starting running back Isiah Pacheco for nine games. Yet, Pacheco is slated to make his long-awaited return to action against the Las Vegas Raiders on Black Friday.
What happened to Pacheco, and how have the Chiefs stayed afloat without him? Here’s a closer look at his injury and Kansas City’s recipe for success.
What Happened to Isiah Pacheco?
Pacheco was off to a strong start to the regular season, recording 41 total touches for 189 total yards and one rushing touchdown through his first two games in 2024. Unfortunately, Pacheco’s hot start quickly turned cold following a serious leg injury.
After recording 24 total touches for 95 total yards against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 2, Pacheco fractured his fibula late in the game. He appeared to be hit low while being sandwiched by three defenders with under two minutes remaining in the game.
While the Chiefs were ultimately able to escape with a 26-25 victory over the Bengals, many believed losing Pacheco would hinder Kansas City’s offense. However, despite eagerly awaiting his return, the Chiefs have been able to thrive.
How Long Was Pacheco Out Due to Injury?
After suffering a fractured fibula as a result, the Chiefs placed Pacheco on injured reserve on Sept. 18, 2024, and he’s missed a total of nine games this season. Nevertheless, Kansas City stayed hot without its starting RB, going 8-1 without Pacheco in its backfield.
Pacheco was initially expected to miss six to eight weeks following surgery to repair his fractured fibula. Yet, the Chiefs didn’t activate his 21-day practice window until Week 11.
While Kansas City didn’t activate Pacheco in time to play in either Week 11 or 12, he appears in line to make his return to action against the Raiders on Black Friday. Pacheco recorded his first full practice on Wednesday, and all signs point to him returning to play in Week 13.
Who Plays Running Back for the Kansas City Chiefs?
While Pacheco is regarded as Kansas City’s lead RB, the Chiefs had to call an audible once he was injured in Week 2. And they did so by signing and reuniting with running back Kareem Hunt.
After being selected by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Kansas City moved on from Hunt in 2018. Despite spending several years apart, both sides knew it was time for a reunion in 2024.
Since arriving back in Kansas City, Hunt has served as the Chiefs’ lead RB during Pacheco’s absence. Hunt leads the team in rushing attempts (155), rushing yards (577), and rushing touchdowns (5).
The Chiefs also used Carson Steele and Samaje Perine during Pacheco’s absence. Following Pacheco’s return, Kansas City will likely roll with a two-headed monster in the backfield featuring a rotation between Pacheco and Hunt.
