As the Kansas City Chiefs return from their bye week, one big question hangs over their preparation for a divisional matchup in Denver: Who will handle lead running back duties? Isiah Pacheco’s knee injury, suffered in late October, has created real uncertainty, and with the run game already in need of a boost, his availability is critical to Kansas City’s offensive plan on the road.
Isiah Pacheco Injury Update
The injury occurred late in the Chiefs’ Week 8 victory over Washington, where Pacheco sprained his MCL, limped off for an evaluation on the sideline, and did not return. After missing the Week 9 game at Buffalo, the subsequent Week 10 bye created an extra recovery window that seemed to target Week 11 for his return.
However, the team’s official designation for him was “week to week,” a label that often suggests a multi-week absence for knee sprains, not just a day-to-day issue. He was ultimately ruled out for the Week 11 game against the Denver Broncos.
That cautious outlook became more apparent as the new week of practice began. The head coach expressed uncertainty, stating, “I’ll have to see on Pacheco,” when asked about the running back’s status. This comment stood in contrast to more optimistic updates on other starters, suggesting a slower recovery path that aligns with typical timelines for managing MCL sprains.
In the most recent game without Pacheco, the team’s contingency plan was clear. Kareem Hunt took on the lead role against Buffalo, handling 78% of the snaps. He finished with 11 carries for 49 yards and a touchdown, plus two catches for six yards.
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The importance of running back depth was highlighted by the team’s interest in adding another back at the trade deadline. They reportedly inquired about Breece Hall, but were not willing to meet the asking price, leaving the current roster as is. With no trade made, the immediate plan is clear: prioritize Pacheco’s long-term health and rely on Hunt to carry the load until the starter is fully cleared.
Kansas City Chiefs’ Insights for Week 11
Team: According to PFSN’s Playoff Predictor, the result of this game will determine if the Chiefs have any realistic chance of winning the AFC West. A win improves their chances to 20.2% and a loss drops them to 2.9% chance. Kansas City enters with a 59.6% chance of making the playoffs; a loss will decrease the number to 46.3%, and a win bumps it up to 72.0%.
QB: Patrick Mahomes has 13 of 14 games he’s played against the Broncos with 20 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. His highest QBi against Denver is 79.0 (C), achieved twice: once in 2018 and once in 2019.
Offense: Kansas City had its lowest OFFi (71.7, C-) of the season in Week 9 against the Bills. That snapped a five-game streak of grading at a B- level or higher.
Defense: The Chiefs have allowed 27 points or more three times this year, all on the road, and have received a D+ or worse grade from DEFi.
Fantasy: Xavier Worthy has just a single game with more than 11.1 fantasy points all season. Since Rashee Rice returned, the sophomore speedster has given fantasy managers games of 7.8, 10.3, and 6.0. The Broncos allow the second fewest fantasy points per game to wide receivers.