Kansas City, Mo. — Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco is projected to be sidelined for roughly six to eight weeks due to a fibula injury sustained during Sunday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals, sources informed ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Monday.
Pacheco will be placed on injured reserve, although he is anticipated to make a return before the end of the season. Following the injury, Pacheco received X-rays on Sunday night and is scheduled for an MRI on Monday to assess the potential for fractures or ligament damage in his right ankle. He was seen leaving Arrowhead Stadium on crutches and in a walking boot following the Chiefs’ narrow 26-25 win.
Chiefs coach Andy Reid indicated that Pacheco’s recovery might take longer than initially expected, stating, “I know it won’t be this week and it’ll probably be more than that… It’s going to take a little bit of time there.”
To address the running back position, the Chiefs are reportedly bringing back former player Kareem Hunt for a visit on Tuesday, according to league sources.
Pacheco, 25, has been the top rusher for the Chiefs in the last two seasons. He accumulated 90 yards on 19 carries and caught five passes for 21 yards in Sunday’s game. So far this season, he has rushed for a total of 135 yards and a touchdown, averaging 4.0 yards per carry.
“He had tears. He was emotional. But you don’t ever want to lose it,” Reid said, noting Pacheco’s passion for the game. “It’s an emotional sport, and that kid — nobody likes to play more than he likes to play.”
Currently, the Chiefs have undrafted rookie Carson Steele and veteran Samaje Perine in their running back lineup. Steele has picked up 27 yards this season, while Perine, who was signed after being released by the Denver Broncos, caught one pass for 3 yards against the Bengals.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire, the Chiefs’ top rusher in 2020, is on the non-football injury list. He is eligible to return in Week 5 when the Chiefs face the New Orleans Saints.
Reid confirmed on Monday that the team plans to utilize the running backs on their roster while general manager Brett Veach explores other options. “We’ll just see where that goes, but we’re blessed to have some good people here,” Reid added.