Isiah Pacheco May Take More Time for Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs’ struggling running game (26th in the NFL, 3.8 yards per carry) faces another hit: star running back Isiah Pacheco may need extra time to recover from a high ankle sprain, missing the initial 2-3 week timeline. Injured in Week 12’s Colts loss, Pacheco was initially targeted for a Week 15 return against the 49ers—but slow healing has changed that. Isiah Pacheco May Take More Time for Kansas City Chiefs breaks down his recovery, the impact of a longer absence, and the Chiefs’ backup plans.

Isiah Pacheco May Take More Time for Kansas City Chiefs begins with why recovery is slow. High ankle sprains involve tough-to-heal ligaments, and Pacheco’s case is no exception. Coach Andy Reid notes Pacheco’s progress—walking without a brace, light agility drills—but no contact or full-speed work yet. “We won’t rush him,” Reid said. “Inflammation remains, and re-injury is a risk.” Pacheco, with 182 carries for 765 yards and 5 TDs this season, is frustrated but cautious: “Rushing back could cost me the rest of the year. I trust the trainers.” Medical staff warns unhealed sprains lead to lingering issues.

A key concern is Pacheco’s value beyond stats. He’s the Chiefs’ top rusher, a short-yardage ace (72% third-and-1 conversion), and a critical pass-blocker for Patrick Mahomes. His physical style (4.2 yards per carry, 35% stacked boxes) opens the passing game. Replacements Jerick McKinnon (3.1 yards per carry, pass-focused) and rookie Deneric Prince (12 carries, 45 yards) can’t match his production. “Isiah is our running game engine,” said OC Matt Nagy. “Replacing him means losing physicality and consistency—not just carries.”

Isiah Pacheco May Take More Time for Kansas City Chiefs also includes the Kansas City Chiefs’ backup plan. A longer absence means leaning on McKinnon and Prince, plus possibly elevating Darwin Thompson (back from a hamstring injury, knows the offense) from the practice squad. Playcalling is adjusted too: more zone runs (lineback-focused) and McKinnon’s pass targets. “We’re playing to backups’ strengths,” Nagy said. “Jerick catches well; Deneric and Darwin use speed on outside runs.” For the Kansas City Chiefs, the goal is a functional run game to ease pressure on Mahomes (34 sacks this season). “Even 3-4 yards per carry takes pressure off Patrick,” Reid said.

Another angle is the Kansas City Chiefs’ playoff-focused priority. At 6-7, the Chiefs fight for a wild-card spot—but Pacheco’s health matters more. Rushing him back risks playoff absence. “We play for more than one game,” GM Brett Veach said. “Losing 1-2 regular games to have him healthy for playoffs is worth it.” This aligns with the Chiefs’ history of protecting stars like Mahomes and Travis Kelce. It also shows the team values players over short-term wins.

Isiah Pacheco May Take More Time for Kansas City Chiefs also highlights keeping Pacheco engaged for the Kansas City Chiefs. Sidelined, Pacheco mentors Prince and Thompson—sharing film insights, blocking tips, and pressure handling. He joins offensive meetings to advise on playcalls. “We want him contributing off the field,” Reid said. “His knowledge strengthens the team.” Pacheco embraces it: “I can help these guys get better—whatever helps the team.” For the Kansas City Chiefs, this boosts backups and maintains morale, keeping focus on the end goal.

Isiah Pacheco May Take More Time for Kansas City Chiefs wraps up with season stakes. A longer absence is a setback, but the Chiefs (led by Mahomes and Kelce) can adapt. The run game’s success will decide playoffs: 3.5-4 yards per carry from backups keeps them in hunt; a collapse forces Mahomes to carry the offense (higher injury risk). “We’ve been here before,” Mahomes said. “We’ll rally, and when Isiah’s back, we’ll be stronger.” For the Kansas City Chiefs, Pacheco’s recovery tests resilience. A full return fuels a playoff push; otherwise, the season may end early. How they handle it defines their 2024 campaign.