The Kansas City Chiefs secured a close 26-25 victory against the Cincinnati Bengals Sunday afternoon, but the win came at a cost. Starting running back Isiah Pacheco suffered a leg injury late in the game, casting doubt on his availability for the remainder of the regular season. Pacheco has played a significant role in the Chiefs’ offense, but his injury leaves a void in the backfield as the team prepares for Week 3 against the Atlanta Falcons.
Pacheco, a seventh-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, before his injury, he rushed for 45 yards on 15 carries and caught two passes for 33 yards and a touchdown in the Chiefs’ first two games. His absence will be felt in the coming weeks as Kansas City evaluates their options in the backfield.
Pacheco’s Injury
Isiah Pacheco’s injury occurred after the two-minute warning in the fourth quarter. On a first-and-10 carry, Pacheco ran up the middle for a short gain before being sandwiched by three Bengals defenders. He was bent awkwardly as he was tackled from behind, causing the injury.
Pacheco was emotional on the sidelines after the injury. Chiefs coach Andy Reid commented on the situation, saying, “He was emotional in the locker room, but he’s a tough kid. He’ll bounce back.” Reid also noted that while Pacheco was able to walk under his own power, he remained cautious about the severity of the injury.
The Chiefs turned to Samaje Perine and rookie Carson Steele for the remainder of the game. They helped complete the game-winning drive, while Pacheco stayed on the sideline in visible discomfort.
Confirmed Fibula Fracture
NFL insider Jeff Darlington reported after Sunday’s game that Pacheco left the stadium on crutches and wearing a boot. Initial concerns centered around a possible fibula injury, and those fears were confirmed by further testing. According to Adam Schefter, Pacheco suffered a fibula fracture, which will sideline him for at least four weeks.
Pacheco is expected to be placed on injured reserve, meaning he will miss a minimum of four games, though further tests are being conducted to determine the full extent of the damage. This injury adds to the Chiefs’ now missing three players who are supposed to be core pieces of their offense for this season.
Chiefs’ Running Back Options
The Chiefs are already dealing with injuries at the running back position, as Clyde Edwards-Helaire is on the non-football injury list. With Pacheco expected to miss time, Kansas City may turn to Samaje Perine and Carson Steele to fill the void. Both backs will need to step up in Pacheco’s absence, particularly Steele, who has shown potential in his rookie season.
There is also a chance that the Chiefs could bring back veteran running back Jerick McKinnon. McKinnon has ties to the organization and is familiar with the offense, making him a logical choice to bolster the backfield while Pacheco recovers.
Final Thoughts
Pacheco’s injury couldn’t have come at a worse time for Kansas City, but the Chiefs have faced adversity before. Now the Chiefs will just have to lean on their running backs in-house to maintain balance in their rushing attack while Pacheco recovers.
Then Andy Reid and the rest of the offensive coaching staff are going to have to adjust to this new reality and see if they are able to remain on track as the NFL season is still young with much football to still be played.
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