Dec 21, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco (10) runs the ball against Houston Texans linebacker Henry To'oTo'o (39) during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

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Isiah Pacheco Injury Update: Chiefs RB sidelined with rib issue ahead of playoffs

Isiah Pacheco injury update: Rib issue details

The Kansas City Chiefs clinched the AFC’s top seed with a commanding 29-10 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, but not without a hiccup. Running back Isiah Pacheco exited the game in the second half due to a rib injury. While the injury isn’t expected to be severe, as confirmed by head coach Andy Reid, it raises questions about Pacheco’s availability and role moving forward.

RB Isiah Pacheco is questionable to return (ribs). pic.twitter.com/TSEu4GA6l9
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) December 25, 2024

Pacheco managed just 18 yards on six carries before his exit, continuing a trend of underwhelming performances since his Week 13 return from an earlier injury. In those five games, he hasn’t surpassed 55 rushing yards or scored a touchdown, ceding much of the red-zone workload to Kareem Hunt. Hunt, who has emerged as the more reliable back, added a touchdown against Pittsburgh and led the team with 20 rushing yards on nine carries.

What’s next for Pacheco and the Chiefs’ backfield?

Pacheco’s rib injury comes at a critical juncture. The Chiefs, now 15-1, have secured home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, making Week 18 against the Denver Broncos relatively low-stakes. Reid is likely to rest key starters, which could mean a reduced or nonexistent role for Pacheco in the regular-season finale.

Chiefs’ backfield depth: Who steps up?

If Pacheco misses time, Kansas City’s running back room will lean on veterans like Kareem Hunt, who’s been the most productive back since Pacheco’s midseason injury. Hunt has scored in consecutive games and continues to handle red-zone duties effectively. Behind him, Samaje Perine and Carson Steele offer depth, but the Chiefs will hope they don’t need to rely too heavily on the committee approach in January.

Andy Reid said RB Isiah Pacheco "dinged his ribs" and the team will "see how bad they are."
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) December 26, 2024

Pacheco’s recent performances suggest a player still finding his rhythm after a lengthy injury. Since returning in Week 13, he hasn’t recorded a touchdown or surpassed 55 rushing yards in a game. The Chiefs’ offense has pivoted to favoring Hunt’s experience and versatility, particularly in high-leverage moments.

Image: Imagn Images

Isiah Pacheco

Isiah Pacheco injury update

Natasha Bose

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