Isiah Pacheco, running back for the Kansas City Chiefs, plays with a deep sense of purpose, dedicating his performance to the memory of his siblings—Travoise, Ricky, Felicia, and Celeste. Drafted into the NFL in 2022, the New Jersey native has already celebrated two Super Bowl victories, including scoring a touchdown in his debut game. As he reveled in his second championship win in February 2024 with his parents, Felicia “Jody” Cannon and Julio Pacheco, his thoughts were filled with memories of his late siblings.
Travoise and Celeste tragically lost their lives in 2016 and 2017, respectively. During his time as a student-athlete at Rutgers University, Isiah often paused in the end zone to pray for them before returning to play. “I’ll say a few prayers for my sister and my brother and a couple of people who passed in my life,” he stated in a 2019 interview, expressing how he pours his heart into every game for his family in the stands.
Isiah is the youngest of five siblings. His eldest brother, Travoise, was followed by Ricky, Felicia, and Celeste. They grew up in Bridgeton and later Vineland, New Jersey, where Isiah began playing football. His mother shared anecdotes of him persuading his older siblings into doing what he desired despite being the youngest.
Felicia, named after their mother, has a close bond with Isiah, who keeps her nickname “Jody” close to his heart, even wearing a gold necklace bearing the name. Both Felicia and Ricky tend to stay out of the limelight, while Isiah shared fond memories of bonding with Travoise over football, noting how his brother always encouraged him to pursue the sport despite his untimely passing in 2016.
Travoise, who was fatally stabbed at the Amity Heights Apartments in Bridgeton, left a lasting impact on Isiah, who was only 16 at the time. Reflecting on their bond, he recalled how Travoise taught him how to ride four-wheelers, always being a protective figure.
Isiah also honored his late sister Celeste, who was killed by her partner in 2017. She meant the world to him, and he referred to her as a best friend and second mother. Isiah was determined to keep her memory alive through his performance, achieving remarkable feats on the field just days after her death.
Celeste left behind three children, and Isiah draws inspiration from them as he steps onto the field, hoping to introduce her son to football. His relationship with his nieces has grown as well, with them teaching him TikTok dances that he showcases during his celebrations on the field. Isiah continues to honor his siblings through his journey in the NFL, motivated by their memories and love.