The Kansas City Chiefs are bracing for a significant setback, as dynamic running back Isiah Pacheco is expected to be placed on injured reserve following a devastating injury during Sunday’s thrilling 26-25 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, according to an NFL Network report released Monday.
Pacheco, who suffered a broken fibula, underwent X-rays on his right ankle immediately after the game and was scheduled for an MRI on Monday to determine the full extent of the injury.
The 25-year-old standout was seen wearing walking boots and using crutches as he exited Arrowhead Stadium, a sight that sent shivers down the spine of Chiefs’ fans who have come to rely on his electrifying presence in the backfield.
In a tense moment that came with less than two minutes remaining in the game, Pacheco was injured when a defender bent him backward during a tackle while another player held his leg on a one-yard run. This unfortunate incident occurred during Kansas City’s final offensive drive, which culminated in a nail-biting 51-yard field goal by Harrison Butker.
Head coach Andy Reid, always a beacon of composure, was cautiously optimistic after the game, stating, “I don’t really know right now. I’ll have to see what happens. They’re doing all the work right now, so I haven’t had a chance to talk to them or anything about it.”
Before his injury, Pacheco showcased his incredible talent, rushing for 90 yards on 19 carries and adding five receptions for 21 yards. His contribution has been nothing short of remarkable, as he has amassed a team-high 135 rushing yards through the first two games of the season.
Since his selection in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Pacheco has etched his name in Chiefs’ history, winning two Super Bowl championships and racking up an impressive 2,328 yards from scrimmage with 15 touchdowns in just 33 games (26 starts). In the heat of the postseason, he has continued to shine, with 635 yards and four touchdowns from scrimmage in seven playoff games.
With Pacheco sidelined, veteran Samaje Perine is listed as his backup on the depth chart, though he did not see action on Sunday. Additionally, rookie Carson Steele, an undrafted talent out of UCLA, stepped up against Cincinnati carrying the ball seven times for 24 yards.
The Chiefs and their dedicated fanbase will undoubtedly feel the absence of Pacheco’s significant contributions. But rest assured, this team, known for its resilience and depth, will rally and find a path forward during his recovery.
