Isiah Pacheco Injury News & Updates

Pacheco (knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Broncos.

With Pacheco, who last saw game action in Week 8, still sidelined, Kareem Hunt is poised to continue to lead the Chiefs' backfield this weekend, while Brashard Smith, Elijah Mitchell and potential practice squad elevation Clyde Edwards-Helaire available to mix in. Pacheco's next chance to see game action will occur Nov. 23 against the Colts. While filling in for Pacheco in a Week 9 loss to the Bills (prior to Kansas City's bye), Hunt carried 11 times for 49 yards and a touchdown while catching one of two targets for six yards. In that contest, Smith logged three carries for seven yards, and Edwards-Helaire rushed twice for five yards.

Coach Andy Reid said Pacheco (knee) didn't practice Friday, Pete Sweeney of ArrowheadPride.com reports.

Pacheco hasn't practiced since taking a hit to the side of his right knee during a Week 8 win against the Commanders, after which he was diagnosed with a sprained MCL. He thus appears destined to be ruled out for a second game in a row coming out of the Chiefs' Week 10 bye. Kareem Hunt will continue to lead the backfield for as long as Pacheco is sidelined.

Pacheco (knee) remained a non-participant at practice Thursday.

Pacheco is still hampered by the knee injury that kept him out of action in Week 9 against the Bills. Kansas City was previously optimistic that a Week 10 bye would provide sufficient time for Pacheco to heal, but he's trending toward remaining sidelined Sunday against the Broncos, in which case Kareem Hunt would likely retain the lead role in Kansas City's backfield. Pacheco would probably need to practice in some capacity Friday to have any chance of playing Sunday.

Pacheco (knee) won't practice Wednesday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

It's not the greatest sign that Pacheco -- who was inactive in Week 9 -- will miss the Chiefs' first practice coming off a bye, but the running back will have two more chances to return to work before injury designations are posted for Sunday's game against the Broncos. In his absence from the Chiefs' 28-21 loss to the Bills on Nov. 2, Kareem Hunt paced Kansas City's backfield with 11 carries for 49 yards and a TD, adding one catch for six yards, with Brashard Smith (three carries) and Clyde Edwards-Helaire (two carries) mixing in.

Pacheco (knee), who is out for Sunday's game against the Bills, should be back after the Chiefs' Week 10 bye, Tracy Wolfson of CBS Sports reports.

Per Wolfson, coach Andy Reid indicated that Pacheco avoided a serious injury, which gives the running back a chance to return to action Nov. 16 against the Broncos. In his absence Sunday, Kareem Hunt, Brashard Smith and Clyde Edwards-Helaire are expected to carry Kansas City's backfield load, with Elijah Mitchell a candidate to be active versus Buffalo as well.

Pacheco (knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Bills after not practicing this week.

With the Chiefs on bye in Week 10, Pacheco's next chance to see game action will arrive Nov. 16 against the Broncos. In his absence this weekend, Pete Sweeney of ArrowheadPride.com indicates that Kareem Hunt is line to start Sunday's contest, with Brashard Smith and Elijah Mitchell in line to back him up, per ESPN.com.

Coach Andy Reid said Friday that Pacheco (knee) is unlikely to play Sunday at Buffalo, Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com reports.

Pacheco took a hit to the side of his right knee late during Monday's 28-7 win against the Commanders and was diagnosed with an MCL sprain afterward. He proceeded to miss all three practices during Week 9 prep and now is poised to be ruled out ahead of Sunday's game. With Pacheco set to be sidelined, Kareem Hunt is poised to be the Chiefs' primary backfield option this weekend, while Brashard Smith and potentially Elijah Mitchell also will be on hand for RB reps.

Pacheco (knee) won't practice Thursday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

With consecutive 'DNPs' Wednesday and Thursday, Pacheco is trending in the wrong direction ahead of Sunday's game against the Bills, and it's possible that he'll be ruled out as soon as Friday. If Pacheco is unavailable this weekend, Kareem Hunt would be in line for more carries in Week 9, per ESPN.com, with Brashard Smith and Elijah Mitchell backing him up.

Pacheco (knee) won't practice Wednesday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Pacheco's absence from the Chiefs' first practice this week isn't surprising, with Tom Pelissero of NFL Network having reported Tuesday that the running back is considered week-to-week with an MCL sprain. Per Pete Sweeney of ArrowheadPride.com, coach Andy Reid indicated that he doesn't think Pacheco's injury is a long-term concern, but it remains to be seen if suiting up Sunday against the Bills is a possibility for the Chiefs' leading rusher. In the event that he's sidelined this weekend, Kareem Hunt and Brashard Smith would be next up for carries, with Elijah Mitchell available to mix in.

Pacheco is considered week-to-week due to a right MCL sprain that he suffered during Monday's 28-7 win against the Commanders, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

The injury undoubtedly stems from the hit to the side of his right knee that he took in fourth quarter, but it happened late enough that the Chiefs never touched on its nature. He ended up pacing the team in rushing yards (58), which was a season-high marks for the fourth-year pro. Assuming Pacheco actually misses some time, Kareem Hunt is lined up to lead Kansas City's backfield, while Brashard Smith and even Elijah Mitchell are candidates to be regulars in the offense.

Pacheco rushed 12 times for 58 yards and was not targeted as a receiver in Monday's 28-7 win over Washington.

Pacheco finished as the Chiefs' leading rusher a week after scoring his first touchdown of the season. His 58 rushing yards also represented a new high-water mark through eight appearances, which also highlights his capped production as part of a backfield committee. Teammate Kareem Hunt still finished with the superior fantasy score after cashing in a pair of touchdowns in the lopsided win. Pacheco did absorb a hard shot to his knee late in the contest, but he was seen moving freely on the sidelines after being checked out by the medical staff. Fantasy managers will want to monitor the rotation piece's status during the practice week ahead of a potential shootout against the Bills in Week 9.

Pacheco rushed the ball 15 times for 57 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 31-0 win over the Raiders. He added one reception on two targets for minus-three yards.

Pacheco logged a season high in both rush attempts and yards on the ground. He still wasn't particularly efficient, though he did manage at three rushes of seven yards -- one of which went for his first touchdown of the season. Kareem Hunt was beat up during the game, which could have propped up Pacheco's volume. While Hunt was able to return, it will be worth monitoring his status for a Week 8 matchup against the Commanders, as Pacheco could be in for a larger workload.

Pacheco gained 51 yards on 12 carries while catching one of three targets for no gain in Sunday's 30-17 win over Detroit.

Pacheco finished Sunday's win as the Chiefs' leading rusher, garnering six more touches than veteran backup Kareem Hunt (6-23-0). The 26-year-old Pacheco had been mired in an even timeshare for most of the season, so Sunday's disparity in touches could be something to monitor moving forward. Pacheco would need that hypothetical increase in usage in order to develop into a reliable starting option in fantasy. Until then, treat the physical runner as nothing more than a flex option against the Raiders next Sunday.

Pacheco carried the ball seven times for 36 yards while adding three receptions for 20 yards in Monday's 31-28 loss to the Jaguars.

Pacheco excelled on a per-carry basis (5.1 YPC) while garnering the most targets out of the backfield for Kansas City on Monday. That's where the good news ends, as fellow RB Kareem Hunt found the end zone twice on his seven rushing attempts in the loss. Pacheco's fantasy value continues to be doused by the presence of his veteran teammate in an even timeshare, a scenario that should continue repeating itself against the Lions on Sunday.

Pacheco rushed the ball seven times for 35 yards in Sunday's 37-20 win over the Ravens. He added two receptions on three targets for eight yards and a touchdown.

Kareem Hunt worked as the clear lead back in the game, though he averaged an abysmal 2.6 yards per attempt. Pacheco took advantage, logging a long rush of 12 yards while also finding the end zone for the first time in 2025 with an eight-yard touchdown catch late in the second quarter. Pacheco will be difficult to trust so long as he's splitting opportunity with Hunt, but he's showcased improved efficiency and volume in the last two games.

Pacheco took 10 carries for 45 yards and caught his only target for three yards in Sunday's 22-9 win over the Giants.

Pacheco was far more efficient with his 10 carries in Sunday's win compared to the paltry 22 rushing yards he managed in Week 2. The positive news ends there, as backup Kareem Hunt also received 10 carries while punching in Kansas City's only rushing touchdown on the evening. It appears a timeshare has developed in the Chiefs' backfield, limiting Pacheco to a flex option at best against the Ravens next Sunday.

Pacheco rushed 10 times for 22 yards while catching one of two targets for seven yards in Sunday's 20-17 loss to Philadelphia.

Pacheco struggled to find any running room against the Eagles' front seven, averaging a paltry 2.2 yards per tote in another forgettable fantasy showing. Things got so bleak that QB Patrick Mahomes wound up finishing as Kansas City's leading rusher on just seven attempts (66 yards and a touchdown). The 0-2 Chiefs' offense is in shambles to begin the season, but Pacheco retains the highest fantasy potential of any backfield options heading into next Sunday's tilt against the Giants.

Pacheco rushed five times for 25 yards and brought in two of three targets for three yards in the Chiefs' 27-21 loss to the Chargers on Friday night.

The Chiefs were down by a touchdown after one quarter and trailed throughout, which played a part in Pacheco seeing a modest workload. Additionally, backfield mate Kareem Hunt matched Pacheco's carry total, while Patrick Mahomes paced the Chiefs with both his six rush attempts and 57 rushing yards. Despite Friday's usage, Pacheco still profiles as Kansas City's top running back heading into a Week 2 Super Bowl rematch with the Eagles at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 14.

Pacheco rushed three times for 21 yards and a touchdown without receiving a target in Friday's preseason loss to the Bears.

Pacheco handled the first and last touches of Kansas City's opening drive Friday, the latter of which netted him a two-yard touchdown. It is worth mentioning that veteran backup Kareem Hunt got the first crack at the goal line from three yards out on the previous carry before giving way to Pacheco. That's a scenario that could pop up during the regular season, where Pacheco has scoring opportunities poached by Hunt from in close. The 26-year-old Pacheco is still the preferred option for both his team and fantasy managers when the Chiefs take on the Charges on Sept. 5.

Pacheco had one reception for 22 yards and did not record a rushing attempt in Friday's preseason loss to the Seahawks.

Pacheco came out with the first-team offense and was limited to just one touch for the second consecutive preseason tilt. The 26-year-old has little to prove heading into the regular season, but he still fought for 22 yards on his only target Friday. Expect Pacheco to be limited once again in Kansas City's final exhibition contest against Chicago next Friday.

Pacheco rushed once for eight yards in the Chiefs' 20-17 preseason loss to the Cardinals on Saturday night.

Pacheco got the Chiefs' first touch of the night and made good use of it, but that would be the extent of his action in the preseason opener. The third-year back gave way to Kareem Hunt on Kansas City's second possession, but a heavier workload could certainly be on tap during the Chiefs' second preseason matchup Friday night on the road against the Seahawks.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said Thursday that Pacheco "looks tremendous" at OTAs and has "put on some good weight," Charles Goldman of AtoZSports.com reports.

Pacheco missed Week 3 through Week 12 last season due to a broken fibula and looked like a shadow of his usual self when back in action, averaging just 3.4 YPC across Kansas City's five remaining regular season games and three playoff contests. When healthy Pacheco is an explosive, physical ballcarrier capable of overrunning would-be tacklers, as demonstrated by his 4.9 YPC and 4.6 YPC averages in 2022 and 2023. An offseason to return to full form should securely position Pacheco atop the Chiefs' running back depth chart, especially in the wake of the team's decision to forego early-round additions to the position in the 2025 NFL Draft. The Chiefs re-signed Kareem Hunt and added Elijah Mitchell in free agency, both to one-year deals, and added Brashard Smith in the seventh-round of April's draft, but all three backs seem more likely to push for complementary snaps than an actual committee if Pacheco can indeed return to 100 percent strength.

Pacheco took three carries for seven yards and brought in one of two targets for five yards in Sunday's 40-22 loss to the Eagles.

Pacheco was the first back deployed out of Kansas City's backfield in what turned out to be a blowout loss for the Chiefs. Recent starter Kareem Hunt wound up matching Pacheco in total touches, so the starting honors meant little in the one-sided affair. That said, his veteran counterpart is set to become an unrestricted free agent this upcoming offseason while Pacheco still has one year left on his current four-year deal. The Chiefs could bolster its backfield this upcoming offseason, but Pacheco stands to be the favorite to start next year as we officially head into the 2025 offseason.

Pacheco carried the ball five times for 12 yards and secured both of his targets for 12 yards during Sunday's 32-29 AFC Championship Game win over the Bills.

Pacheco once again took a backseat to Kareem Hunt (17-64-1) out of the backfield, logging his sixth consecutive game below the 4.0 YPC mark. The 25-year-old hasn't carried an injury designation into either of the Chiefs' playoff wins so far, but Pacheco hasn't looked like himself since he fractured his right fibula in a Week 2 win over the Bengals, an injury which required a nine-game stint on IR. He then dealt with a rib injury late in the regular season. Pacheco will remain involved in Super Bowl LIX versus the Eagles on Feb. 9, but Hunt remains the favorite to lead Kansas City's backfield.

Pacheco ran the ball five times for 18 yards and caught his only target for no gain in Saturday's 23-14 playoff win over the Texans.

Pacheco was unable to get anything going on the ground early against Houston's defensive front, opening the door for veteran Kareem Hunt (8-44-1) to lead Kansas City's backfield in production. The 25-year-old Pacheco was dealing with a rib injury that cost him the last game of the regular season, but he did not carry an injury designation heading into Saturday's tilt. Both of the Chiefs' running backs figure to be involved in next Sunday's AFC Championship Game, but Pacheco's star has lost its luster following Hunt's superior performance against the Texans.

Pacheco (rib) was a full participant in Tuesday's practice.

Pacheco emerged from the Chiefs' Dec. 25 win over the Steelers with a rib injury, though head coach Andy Reid mostly downplayed any concern about the issue shortly after that game. The running back ended up sitting out the Chiefs' Week 18 loss to the Broncos, though he was likely inactive mostly as a precaution since Kansas City had already clinched the AFC's No. 1 seed and had little to gain by exposing him to further injury in the regular-season finale. After sitting out Week 18 and benefiting from the Chiefs' first-round playoff bye, Pacheco's ability to practice in full suggests he'll be ready to go for Saturday's postseason opener versus the Texans. Pacheco played less than half of the Chiefs' offensive snaps in each of his five appearances since being activated from injured reserve in Week 13 following an extended absence due to a fractured right fibula, so he could once again find himself in a timeshare out of the backfield with Kareem Hunt in the divisional-round matchup.

Pacheco (ribs) participated in practice Friday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

The Chiefs earned a first-round playoff bye, so the team won't play again until Jan. 18 or Jan. 19, but Pacheco's presence for Friday's session bodes well for his chances of returning to action in the divisional round. Added context on that front will arrive next week, once the team posts its next official practice/injury report.

Pacheco (ribs) has been ruled out for Sunday's regular-season finale against the Broncos.

With the Chiefs having clinched the AFC's No. 1 playoff seed, they'll play it safe with Pacheco with an eye toward having him healthy for the team's divisional round contest. Meanwhile, fellow RB Kareem Hunt (not injury-related) is among the team's key players listed as doubtful for Sunday's contest and on track to be rested in Week 18. In that context, Samaje Perine and Carson Steele are available to handle backfield reps versus Denver, with Keaontay Ingram being a potential practice squad elevation.

Pacheco (ribs) isn't practicing Wednesday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Pacheco is dealing with a rib injury that he suffered in last Wednesday's Christmas Day win over Pittsburgh. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid stated Monday that Pacheco is expected to be ready for the team's first playoff game while also indicating that the RB will be "held back" in practice this week. Kansas City is almost certain to rest many starters for its Week 18 battle against the Broncos, and Pacheco is a near lock to be among those who won't suit up. The Chiefs have the luxury of playing their backups Sunday having already wrapped up the No. 1 AFC playoff seed and clinching a first-round bye.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said Monday that Pacheco (ribs) will "be available playoff-wise" but will be held back in practice this week, Charles Goldman of AtoZSports.com reports.

Pacheco hurt his ribs in Wednesday's Christmas Day win over Pittsburgh, and it would be a major surprise if he suits up in Week 18 versus Denver with Kansas City already having locked up the No. 1 playoff seed in the AFC. The positive news on Pacheco is that he appears to be in no danger of missing any time in the postseason, and he'll have an extra week to recover from what Reid described as "tender" ribs with the Chiefs penciled in for a first-round bye. Kansas City may opt to rest starters beyond Pacheco on Sunday against the Broncos, and it wouldn't be surprising if the team gives Kareem Hunt the day off as well, which would put Samaje Perine and Carson Steele in position to lead the backfield in the regular-season finale.

Coach Andy Reid said after Wednesday's 29-10 win at Pittsburgh that Pacheco "dinged his ribs," and the Chiefs will "see how bad they are" in the coming days, Pete Sweeney of ArrowheadPride.com reports.

Pacheco couldn't get much going in this Christmas Day matchup, turning six carries into 18 yards before leaving in the fourth quarter. Fellow RBs Kareem Hunt (nine carries for 20 yards and one TD) and Samaje Perine (four touches for 29 total yards) also found the sledding tough against the Steelers defense, but both players could experience an uptick in usage if Pacheco has to sit out Week 18 at Denver. Considering the Chiefs locked up the No. 1 seed in the AFC with Wednesday's victory, the team likely won't risk the health of one of their key contributors and instead focus on getting Pacheco healthy for the divisional round.

Pacheco was forced out of Wednesday's game against the Steelers due to a rib injury.

Prior to his exit from the contest, Pacheco carried six times for 18 yards. In Pacheco's absence, Kareem Hunt figures to see added touches in a Kansas City backfield that also includes Samaje Perine and Carson Steele.

Pacheco had nine carries for 26 yards while catching one of two targets for minus-1 yard in Saturday's 27-19 win over the Texans.

Pacheco got the majority of touches in Kansas City's backfield early on but didn't find much success, so Kareem Hunt got more involved as the game went along. Hunt was far more effective, producing 79 scrimmage yards and a touchdown on 11 carries and three targets. Pacheco's still searching for his first score since Week 1, though a fractured fibula suffered in Week 2 has limited him to only six appearances this season. Hunt and Pacheco will likely continue to split carries against the Steelers on Christmas.

Pacheco rushed 13 times for 32 yards and brought in his only target for 15 yards in the Chiefs' 21-7 win over the Browns on Sunday.

Pacheco and backfield mate Kareem Hunt finished with the same number of carries, one week after Pacheco appeared to reclaim his lead-back role with 16 totes against Chargers. Hunt actually outgained Pacheco by 13 yards and one target, although the latter did more with his one pass-catching opportunity. The division of labor in the ground attack during a tough Week 16 home matchup Saturday afternoon against the Texans will therefore be interesting to monitor, and if star signal-caller Patrick Mahomes were to miss that game with the ankle injury he suffered Sunday, it could be even tougher sledding on the ground for either back.

Pacheco rushed 14 times for 55 yards while catching two of four targets for six yards in Sunday's 19-17 win over the Chargers.

Pacheco returned to the clear-cut lead role in his second game back from a fractured fibula, as Kareem Hunt and Samaje Perine combined for just eight touches. After posting 189 scrimmage yards and a touchdown in two games prior to the injury, Pacheco has 110 total yards without a score in two games since returning. Pacheco will look to pick up the pace in Week 15 against the Browns.

Pacheco (ankle) took seven carries for 44 yards and caught his only target for five receiving yards in Friday's 19-17 win over the Raiders.

Pacheco made a successful return from a nine-game layoff due to an ankle injury that occurred back in Week 2. The explosive back looked the part after averaging 6.3 yards per carry while tying fill-in starter Kareem Hunt with seven carries in Friday's slim win. Both backs figure to remain involved with a head coach as creative as Andy Reid, but Pacheco is certainly the back with the upward trending arrow on his fantasy stock. For now, consider both Chiefs playable options heading into an important divisional matchup against the Chargers next Sunday.

The Chiefs have activated Pacheco (ankle) from IR ahead of Friday's game against the Raiders.

Pacheco doesn't carry a designation on the Chiefs' Week 13 injury report, which sets the stage for him to see his first game action since suffering a fractured fibula during Week 2 action. In his looming return to the lineup, it remains to be seen how heavy a workload Pacheco will be handed after his extended absence, but it's plausible that he could be eased backed into the mix to a degree, with Kareem Hunt (who had been filling in as the team's starting RB) also on hand.

Pacheco (ankle) was a full participant in practice Wednesday.

The injury report was released about two hours after Chiefs coach Andy Reid told reports that only a late setback would stop Pacheco from playing Friday against the Raiders. The running back has missed nine straight games since suffering a fractured fibula Week 2, with Kareem Hunt emerging as a consistently fantasy starter in his absence. Reid hasn't commented on workload expectations for Friday in what likely will be Pacheco's first game back on the field.

Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Wednesday that Pacheco (ankle) will play Friday against the Raiders unless he suffers a setback this week, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

Listed as a limited participant in each practice the past two weeks, Pacheco upgraded to full participation Tuesday and now is expected to play for the first time since Week 2. Reid hasn't said if Pacheco is likely to get his usual workload Friday or if he'll yield a bunch of carries to fill-in starter Kareem Hunt.

Pacheco (ankle) was a full participant in Tuesday's practice.

Pacheco had his 21-day evaluation window opened in Week 11, but Tuesday's practice marked the first time he was a full participant since he fractured his right ankle Sept. 15 and required surgery. Assuming he can avoid any setbacks over the next two days of practice, Pacheco will likely be activated from injured reserve and make his return to action Friday against the Raiders. Pacheco should immediately settle back in Kansas City's starting running back, though he could be in store for a lighter workload Friday in what would be his first game since Week 2.

Coach Andy Reid said Friday that Pacheco (ankle) won't play Sunday against the Panthers, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Pacheco has consistently been a limited practice participant over the past two weeks, but he won't be activated from injured reserve prior to Sunday's game against the Panthers. Kareem Hunt will continue to lead Kansas City's backfield. Pacheco's next opportunity to suit up will be Friday, Nov. 29 against the Raiders.

Pacheco (ankle) remained limited at practice Thursday.

Pacheco, who was also limited Wednesday, thus has one more opportunity to practice fully ahead of Sunday's game against the Panthers. While he's trending in the right direction ahead of the weekend, it remains to be seen if the Chiefs will elect to activate Pacheco from IR prior to Saturday afternoon's deadline to do so. If he's held out of Week 12 action, Kareem Hunt would once again be in line to lead the team's backfield versus Carolina.

Pacheco (ankle) was limited in practice Wednesday.

While Pacheco's ability to continue to practice in a limited fashion is encouraging, head coach Andy Reid indicated earlier Wednesday that he's not yet ready to commit to Pacheco -- who remains on IR -- playing Sunday against the Panthers, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports. With the status of Pacheco and DE Charles Omenihu (knee) in mind, Reid said "we'll see on both of those two." If Pacheco ends up sidelined this weekend, Kareem Hunt would once again be in line to handle the bulk of the Chiefs' carries in Week 12.

Pacheco (ankle) is expected to return from injured reserve and play in the Chiefs' Week 12 game against the Panthers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Pacheco will miss his eighth straight game this Sunday at Buffalo, but the running back took a major step forward in his recovery from his surgically repaired right fibula by returning to practice this week as a limited participant from Wednesday through Friday. Though the Chiefs will have 21 days from when his evaluation window was first opened this past Tuesday to add Pacheco back to the 53-man roster, the 25-year-old looks as though he'll need just two weeks of practice to get himself ready to play. Kareem Hunt has been serving as the Chiefs' lead back in Pacheco's absence over the last couple of months, but he'll likely move into more of a secondary change-of-pace role out of the backfield once Pacheco is activated. Assuming Pacheco is ready to go for the Week 12 contest, the Chiefs could still look to limit his snaps and usage to some degree in his first game back, especially with the team facing a quick turnaround for Week 13 with a Black Friday matchup with the Raiders on Nov. 29.

Coach Andy Reid said Friday that Pacheco (fibula), who remains on injured reserve, won't play Sunday at Buffalo, Sam McDowell of The Kansas City Star reports.

Since the Chiefs designated Pacheco for return from IR on Tuesday, Pacheco put together limited practices Wednesday and Thursday, but he remains in his ramp-up period following the fractured fibula that he sustained Week 2 against the Bengals. In the meantime, Kareem Hunt will continue to pace Kansas City's backfield, while Samaje Perine and Carson Steele will be on hand for any RB reps that linger.

Head coach Andy Reid noted Wednesday that Pacheco (fibula) is unlikely to play Sunday against the Bills, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Per Reid, Pacheco, who was designated to return from IR on Tuesday, will be gradually worked back into the mix, but at this stage it appears as though the running back won't be available for Week 11 action. If that's the case, Kareem Hunt will continue to lead Kansas City's backfield versus Buffalo, with Samaje Perineand Carson Steele working in complementary roles.

Pacheco (fibula) has been designated to return from injured reserve by the Chiefs, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

Pacheco, who was placed on IR on Sep. 18, is now available to resume practicing with the team. He is returning from a fractured fibula, and has been eying a late-November return, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. The running back's 21-day window will now extend to the end of the month, and it remains to be seen when Kansas City will officially activate him. Until then, Kareem Hunt figures to continue seeing the majority of touches in the Chiefs' backfield.

Coach Andy Reid said Monday that Pacheco (fibula) is closing in on a return to practice, Charles Goldman of AtoZSports.com reports.

Speaking about Pacheco, WR JuJu Smith-Schuster (hamstring) and DE Charles Omenihu (knee), Reid said, "They're all close. JuJu closer than the other two. I'd tell you, we might have them out there." The Chiefs must designate Pacheco for return from injured reserve in order for him to practice for the first time since fracturing his right fibula back on Sept. 15. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the team is eyeing a return for Pacheco in late November, so getting on the practice field this week would mean his 21-day window extends through the end of the month. In the meantime, though, Kareem Hunt will continue to dominate touches out of Kansas City's backfield.

Pacheco (fibula) is expected to resume practicing in 2-to-3 weeks and is tracking toward a return from injured reserve in late November, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Pacheco has already spent the requisite four games on injured reserve, as the Chiefs deactivated him Sept. 18 after he fractured his right fibula in a Week 2 win over the Bengals three days earlier. The running back underwent surgery shortly thereafter and seems to have steered clear of any setbacks in the rehab process, but he'll still have a few more checkpoints to pass before the Chiefs integrate him into practices. Given the timeline laid out by Rapoport, Pacheco should be expected to remain sidelined for at least the Chiefs' next three games, which will extend Kareem Hunt's leash as Kansas City's lead option out of the backfield.

While head coach Andy Reid noted Thursday that Pacheco (fibula) is "doing fantastic," the running back is not ready to return to practice this week, Nate Taylor of The Athletic reports.

The report suggests that Pacheco -- who injured his fibula Sept. 15 -- is unlikely to practice next week either, but that's not especially surprising, considering the initial estimate that he'd miss six-to-eight weeks. With that context, as well as Reid's encouraging comments Thursday in mind, it does seem that Pacheco could start inching toward a return to action in a couple of weeks or so, but for the time being Kareem Hunt will continue to lead Kansas City's backfield.

Pacheco (fibula) had successful surgery Wednesday and is still expected to return in 6-to-8 weeks, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

There were no complications or ligament damage, which means Pacheco has a good chance to play again this season. It won't happen until November, or perhaps even December, but he's still worth keeping on fantasy rosters given his potential to put up big numbers down the stretch. In the meantime, Carson Steele and Samaje Perine are Kansas City's top candidates for backfield snaps, with Keaontay Ingram also joining the active roster and Kareem Hunt recently signed to the practice squad.

Pacheco (fibula) has been placed on IR by the Chiefs.

Per Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site, Pacheco is slated to undergo surgery Wednesday, after which the team may have a better idea of how long the running back will miss. In any case, Pacheco will be sidelined at least four games, with Carson Steele, Samaje Perine and Keaontay Ingram currently on the team's active roster, Clyde Edwards-Helaire on the reserve/non-football illness list, and Kareem Hunt on Kansas City's practice squad.

Pacheco is slated to undergo surgery on his fractured right fibula in the middle of this week, which will require at least six weeks to recover from, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Pacheco's right leg was caught under a defender on the Chiefs' final possession during Sunday's win against the Bengals. He was seen in a walking boot afterward, and testing eventually revealed the diagnosis of a fracture and a prognosis of 6-to-8 weeks, per Adam Schefter of ESPN. In Pacheco's absence, the duo of Carson Steele and Samaje Perine likely will get the first chance to man Kansas City's field. As for other RB options, Clyde Edwards-Helaire must remain on the reserve/non-football illness list until at least Week 5, Keaontay Ingram and Emani Bailey reside on the practice squad, and Kareem Hunt is expected to visit the team.

Pacheco (fibula) is expected to miss in the range of 6-to-8 weeks, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

For his part, coach Andy Reid has already confirmed that Pacheco will miss Sunday's game against the Falcons, per Jesse Newell of the Kansas City Star, while acknowledging that "it's going to take a little bit of time there" for the running back to recover from his fibula injury. With Pacheco expected to land on IR, Carson Steele and Samaje Perine are next up in the Chiefs' backfield pecking order, with Clyde Edwards-Helaire -- who is on the non-football illness list -- not eligible to return to the active roster until Week 5. The team also has Keaontay Ingram and Emani Bailey on the practice squad and plans to bring Kareem Hunt in for a visit.

The Chiefs are expected to place Pacheco on injured reserve after initial tests indicated that he suffered a fractured fibula in Sunday's 26-25 win over the Bengals, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Kansas City may not make the transaction official until later in the week, but once Pacheco lands on IR, he won't be eligible to play in at least the next four games. Schefter suggests that Pacheco's recovery timeline could extend beyond four games, though the Chiefs won't have a clearer idea for how much time the running back might miss until he undergoes an MRI on Monday to determine if he suffered a fracture or ligament damage to his ankle. Samaje Perine and Carson Steele are next up for carries in the Kansas City backfield, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire (illness) could also factor into the backfield equation once he comes off the reserve/non-football illness list.

Initial tests indicate that Pacheco suffered a fractured fibula in Sunday's win over the Bengals, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Pacheco left the stadium Sunday in a walking boot and crutches, and it appears as though he's poised to miss some time. We'll await confirmation either way from the Chiefs, but for any length of time Pacheco misses, added work will be available for Samaje Perine and Carson Steele.

Pacheco (ankle) left the stadium in a walking boot and on crutches after Sunday's 26-25 win over the Bengals, and he will undergo additional tests on his ankle injury Monday, Jeff Darlington of ESPN.com reports.

Pacheco's tests Monday will clarify the severity of the ankle injury he suffered on his 24th and final touch of Sunday's nail-biting win. If the running back carries an injury designation into Week 3 against the Falcons, the pool of possible alternatives for his fantasy managers will be diminished since most games will have been completed by the time the Chiefs kick off on Sunday Night Football. Carson Steele and Samaje Perine, who combined for eight touches against Cincinnati, would be the top candidates to fill in if Pacheco misses any time.

Pacheco is being evaluated for an ankle injury after Sunday's 26-25 win over the Bengals, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Pacheco got his lower leg caught underneath a defender on a tackle during Kansas City's final drive, which culminated in Harrison Butker's game-winning 51-yard field goal as time expired. The workhorse running back had 19 carries for 90 yards and caught all five of his targets for 21 yards prior to the injury. If Pacheco's availability for Week 3 against the Falcons is impacted, Carson Steele and Samaje Perine would be in line for additional touches.

Pacheco rushed 15 times for 45 yards and a touchdown and brought in two of three targets for 33 yards in the Chiefs' 27-20 win over the Ravens on Thursday night.

The notoriously hard-charging running back put together a trademark effort for his first touchdown of the season, grinding out a one-yard scoring run early in the third quarter where he crossed the goal line on what seemed to be like a third effort. Pacheco also utilized his never-say-die style to gain 23 yards on a second-half reception where he balanced himself on the back of a Ravens defender and prevented himself from touching the ground. Pacheco enjoyed a solid workload overall with the 17 touches, and he'll potentially be in line for more during a Week 2 home matchup against the Bengals on Sunday, Sept. 15.

As Thursday night's season opener against the Ravens approaches, Pacheco remains the starter in a Kansas City backfield that also includes Samaje Perine and Carson Steele, Blair Kerkhoff of the Kansas City Star reports.

With Clyde Edwards-Helaire on the reserve/non-football illness list and in line to miss at least four games, Perine and rookie RB/FB Steele are slated to work in complementary roles behind Pacheco to begin the season. While Perine, who is an adept pass-catching option, will have an opportunity to carve out a change-of-pace role with Kansas City, the newcomer is still getting up to speed with the team's playbook, so it remains to be seen how heavily he'll be utilized versus Baltimore. With that in mind, Pacheco is a candidate to see plenty of touches in Week 1.

Pacheco is among the Chiefs' key skill players not likely to see action in Thursday's preseason finale against the Bears, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

The same applies to QB Patrick Mahomes, fellow RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire, WRs Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy and Justin Watson, as well as TEs Travis Kelce and Noah Gray. As Week 1 approaches, Pacheco is entrenched as Kansas City's lead back, so Thursday's contest should provide Deneric Prince, Carson Steele, Keaontay Ingram, Louis Rees-Zammit and Emani Bailey with opportunities to support their cases for depth slotting in the team's backfield.

Pacheco ran for two yards on one carry in Saturday's preseason game against Detroit.

Pacheco has nothing to prove to the Chiefs, so they put him on the field for one drive and gave him the day off otherwise. Not only is Pacheco primed for a career-high in rushing production 2024, but the Chiefs appear to have less passing-down competition for Pacheco than either of his prior two NFL seasons. If Pacheco can maintain his high rushing standards while adding more as a pass catcher he could break out to a new level in 2024.

Pacheco rushed two times for 16 yards and brought in his only target for nine yards in the Chiefs' 26-13 preseason loss to the Jaguars on Saturday night.

The Chiefs' top back was out there with the rest of the healthy members of team's first-team offense for the opening possession, and Pacheco made good use of his opportunities. The third-year back's efficiency with his three touches is right on brand for the explosive Pacheco, who's set to once again lead Kansas City's backfield in 2024 and will look to improve on the 1,179 total scrimmage yards he recorded across 14 regular-season games a year ago.

Coach Andy Reid said Wednesday that Pacheco and the starting offense will play during Saturday's preseason opener against the Jaguars, J.P. Shadrick of the Jaguars' official site reports.

Reid indicated that the starters will play roughly a quarter Saturday, though Pete Sweeney of ArrowheadPride.com notes that in the past, star players such as Pacheco, Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce have been limited to a single series, while other starter could stay in longer. Pacheco is the clear No. 1 option in Kansas City's backfield, with Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Deneric Prince backing him up, so the Chiefs are unlikely to expose him to a heavy workload this early in the preseason. Expectations are high for Pacheco as he looks to build upon his career-best 2023 campaign, which included 205 attempts for 935 yards (4.6 YPC) and seven scores in 14 regular-season appearances, plus a 44-244-2 receiving line.

Pacheco rushed the ball 18 times for 59 yards in Sunday's 25-22 overtime win over the 49ers. He added six receptions on six targets for 33 yards.

Pacheco had a rough day on the ground, with his worst moment coming early in the second quarter when he lost a fumble at the 49ers' nine-yard line. He did manage a better performance as a receiver, including two receptions on the Chiefs' game-winning drive in overtime. Though it was an underwhelming performance in the Super Bowl, Pacheco proved capable of handling a workhorse role throughout the 2023 regular season, as he tallied career-high marks in both carries (205) and receptions (44) across 14 games. The Chiefs may add to the backfield this offseason, but Pacheco should keep a significant role in the offense in 2024.

Pacheco (toe/ankle) doesn't have an injury designation for Super Bowl LVIII against the 49ers on Sunday.

During the first week of Super Bowl prep, Pacheco was contained to a pair of limited sessions and ended it with no designation for the big game. He proceeded to have no practice limitations this week, meaning he'll be good for his typical workload Sunday. Over the last five contests, including the Chiefs' three postseason wins, Pacheco has averaged 21.8 touches for 94.4 yards from scrimmage and one touchdown per game. Having said that, Jerick McKinnon (groin) is questionable for Sunday's game after the team designated him for return from IR this past weekend, so Pacheco could yield some passing-down reps to the combo of McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire this weekend if the former is activated Saturday.

Pacheco (toe/ankle) was limited at Friday's practice but doesn't have an injury designation after the first week of prep for Super Bowl LVIII against the 49ers.

Prior to the AFC Championship Game this past Sunday, Pacheco managed just one capped session due to toe and ankle injuries but eventually was deemed active for that contest, earning 28 touches for 82 yards from scrimmage and a rushing TD in a 17-10 win at Baltimore. He remained on the Chiefs' practice report this week, being listed as a non-participant on Wednesday's estimate before ending it with back-to-back limited sessions. Pacheco has one more week to get ready for this year's Super Bowl, so even if he has restrictions on his on-field work next week, he appears set to serve as Kansas City's primary option on the ground on Sunday, Feb. 11.

Pacheco (toe/ankle) was a limited participant in practice Thursday.

He was listed as a non-participant on Wednesday's estimated report but then managed to take part in Kansas City's first actual practice ahead of the Super Bowl. Pacheco handled 80 percent snap share and 28 touches in the AFC Championship Game against Baltimore, leaving little doubt he'll be ready for a matchup with the 49ers next Sunday.

Pacheco (ankle/toe) appears to be practicing Thursday, Pete Sweeney of ArrowheadPride.com reports.

Pacheco was listed as a non-participant on Wednesday's practice estimate, but there isn't any real concern about the running back's availability for the Super Bowl after he played through the same toe and ankle injuries in a 17-10 win over the Ravens this past Sunday. In the process, Pacheco took 80 percent of Kansas City's snaps on offense and accounted for 28 of the team's 31 backfield touches.

Pacheco (toe/ankle) is listed as a non-participant on Wednesday's practice report estimate.

The Chiefs didn't actually practice three days after beating Baltimore to advance to the Super Bowl. Pacheco took 28 touches in the AFC Championship Game and didn't appear to aggravate either of his injuries, so he should be fine for the Super Bowl against San Francisco next Sunday and figures to see plenty of the ball again.

Pacheco (toe/ankle) turned 24 carries into 68 yards and a touchdown while catching all four of his targets for 14 yards in Sunday's 17-10 AFC Championship win over the Ravens.

The Chiefs held Pacheco out of most of this week's practice sessions for maintenance after picking up a minor toe injury in the win over the Bills in the divisional round. The physical tailback suited up as expected and set a new high-water mark in touches (28) that he had just set two weeks prior in the wild-card win over the Dolphins. Pacheco is clearly Kansas City's top backfield option and he is seeing the type of workload that reflects that. Those characteristics are what give Pacheco strong fantasy potential heading into Las Vegas for Super Bowl LVIII on Feb. 11.

Pacheco (toe/ankle) is listed as active for Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Ravens.

After being held out of practice both Wednesday and Thursday, Pacheco was able to log a limited session Friday and approached Sunday's contest officially listed as questionable. With his active status confirmed, Pacheco is on track to continue to pace the Chiefs' backfield versus Baltimore in the absence of any in-game setbacks, with Clyde Edwards-Helaire available to mix in and La'Mical Perine in reserve. During Kansas City's divisional-round win over the Bills last weekend, Pacheco was on the field for 72 percent of his team's snaps on offense, en route to rushing 15 times for 97 yards and a touchdown, while catching his lone target for 14 yards.

Pacheco (toe/ankle) is expected to play in Sunday's matchup with the Ravens, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Pacheco drew a questionable designation due to both a toe and ankle injury, but it looks like he is trending towards playing Sunday. He was a non-participant in practice for consecutive days to start the week before logging a limited session Friday. It remains to be seen if he will see a full workload he will see if he indeed gets the green light. Clyde Edwards-Helaire would be the primary beneficiary should Pacheco be limited in any way.

Pacheco (toe/ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Ravens.

After being listed as a non-participant in practice Wednesday and Thursday, Pacheco returned to a limited session Friday and will thus head into the weekend with an official 'questionable' tag ahead of Sunday's 3 p.m. ET kickoff. Look for added context regarding the running back's status to arrive closer to game time, and if Pacheco ends up limited or out versus Baltimore, Clyde Edwards-Helaire would be next in line for added backfield touches for the Chiefs.

Pacheco (toe/ankle) was present for practice Friday, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

After being deemed a non-participant both Wednesday and Thursday, Pacheco's return to the field Friday has him trending in the right direction ahead of Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Ravens. The Chiefs' final injury report of the week will clarify whether the team's top running back heads into the weekend with an injury designation or fully cleared to face Baltimore.

Pacheco (toe/ankle) won't practice Thursday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Per the report, coach Andy Reid relayed that Pacheco participated in the team's morning walk-through, but the running back is slated to go down as a non-participant in practice for the second straight day Thursday. Pacheco thus has one more chance to get in some on-field work ahead of Sunday's AFC Championship Game, but unless he practices fully Friday, he figures to head into the weekend with an injury designation.

Pacheco's toe injury isn't a major concern, James Palmer of NFL Network reports.

Pacheco isn't practicing Wednesday, but it sounds like the Chiefs expect him to be fine for his usual lead role this Sunday in Baltimore. He's taken 39 carries for 186 yards (4.8 YPC) and two TDs in two playoff games while handling 70 and 72 percent of snaps on offense, and he's gotten 15 or more touches in eight straight appearances dating back to early November. The only RB with comparable usage for the Chiefs in the Patrick Mahomes era was Damien Williams at the end of the 2019 season/playoffs.

Pacheco (toe) is not practicing Wednesday, Sam McDowell of The Kansas City Star reports.

Pacheco has operated as a pillar of Kansas City's offense for each of the team's playoff victories so far, totaling 39 carries for 186 (4.8 YPC) and two rushing touchdowns across the two contests. Given his instrumental position on offense recently, the Chiefs may simply be giving Pacheco an opportunity to rest up from his workload and get fully ready for Sunday's AFC Championship Game in Baltimore. Clyde Edwards-Helaire and La'Mical Perine will stand to handle increased practice reps Wednesday, in Pacheco's stead.

Pacheco rushed the ball 15 times for 97 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-24 win over the Bills. He added one catch on one target for 14 yards.

The Chiefs ran only 47 offensive plays, limiting volume for all of their skill-position players. However, Pacheco delivered in key situations, as 82 of 111 yards from scrimmage came in the second half. He punched in a four-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter for what turned out to be the game-winning score, and he had a pair of tough runs on the final possession of the game to record a first down -- allowing Kansas City to run out the clock. Pacheco has been a reliable workhorse in the offense this postseason, handling 39 carries while gaining 186 yards with two trips to the end zone across two games.

Pacheco rushed the ball 24 times for 89 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 26-7 win over the Dolphins. He added one reception on one target for negative-one yard.

The Chiefs ran an impressive 75 plays, meaning the skill-position players had plenty of opportunity to produce. Pacheco was no exception as he saw his highest carry total of the season. He was inefficient with those chances, but he managed to punch in a three-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter to pad his fantasy production. Kansas City's passing attack showed signs of improvement in the win, but Pacheco should continue to serve in a key role throughout the team's playoff run.

Pacheco (shoulder) was a full participant in Tuesday's practice.

Though Pacheco was active for this past Sunday's 13-12 win over the Chargers, he didn't put in a full practice in advance of the contest and ultimately didn't play any snaps in the regular-season finale. Since the Chiefs had already locked up the No. 3 seed in the AFC playoffs heading into Week 18, Pacheco was likely just held out of action as a precaution, but his ability to put in a full practice Tuesday erases any doubt about his status heading into Saturday's wild-card matchup with the Dolphins. In the Chiefs' previous meeting with the Dolphins back in Week 9 in Frankfurt, Germany, Pacheco carried 16 times for 66 yards while failing to haul in his lone target in Kansas City's 21-14 win.

Pacheco didn't take the field during Sunday's regular-season finale versus the Chargers.

Pacheco wasn't listed among the inactives for the regular-season finale, but he may as well have been. He didn't take the field for a snap after both DNPs and limited practice sessions leading up to the contest. He essentially joined many of the starters sitting out Sunday's contest, with the Chiefs having already claimed the No. 3 seed in the AFC, regardless of the outcome of their game. The 24-year-old running back should reclaim the team's top spot on the running back depth chart heading into the wild-card round, where he'll square off against a Dolphins defense yielding just 97.1 rushing yards per game, seventh-fewest in the NFL.

Pacheco (quad/shoulder) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Chargers.

After missing practice Wednesday, Pacheco logged limited sessions Thursday and Friday before approaching the contest listed as questionable. Though the running back is not among the Chiefs' listed inactives Sunday, the team is locked into the No. 3 seed in the AFC playoffs, so it's possible that Pacheco sees little to no action in Kansas City's regular-season finale. With that in mind, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network previously suggested that Pacheco may only be used on an emergency basis versus Los Angeles. In such a scenario, Clyde Edwards-Helaire and La'Mical Perine would be in line to lead Kansas City's Week 18 backfield, with an eye toward protecting Pacheco's health ahead of the postseason.

Pacheco (quadricep/shoulder) remains questionable for Sunday's game against the Chargers but isn't expected to play, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Pacheco closed Week 18 prep with a pair of limited practices and likely would be able to handle his usual role as the Chiefs' lead back Sunday if necessary, but the coaching staff appears content to hold him out while Kansas City is already locked in as the No. 3 seed in the AFC playoffs. Rapoport suggests that Pacheco might only be used in an emergency, so the Chiefs could still elect to keep the 24-year-old active for the contest, even though he's not expected to play. Clyde Edwards-Helaire and La'Mical Perine look poised to absorb all of the snaps at running back in the regular-season finale.

The Chiefs list Pacheco (quadricep/shoulder) as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chargers.

After his pair of injuries kept him from practicing Wednesday, Pacheco was able to return to the field as a limited participant for the Chiefs' final two sessions of Week 18. The running back looks to be reasonably healthy after logging his heftiest workload of the season -- 18 carries for 130 yards, seven catches for 35 yards and a touchdown on a 92 percent snap share -- in the Chiefs' Week 17 win over the Bengals, but don't expect Pacheco to be nearly as involved this Sunday. The Chiefs are locked into the No. 3 seed in the AFC playoffs and already plan to hold out numerous key players for rest or minor injuries, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes (ankle). Even if Pacheco avoids the inactive list ahead of the game's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff, he may play only limited snaps while the Chiefs look to preserve their lead back's health in advance of the wild-card round. Reserves Clyde Edwards-Helaire and La'Mical Perine may be better bets to lead Kansas City running backs in snaps and touches in Week 18.

Pacheco (quad/shoulder) returned to a limited practice Thursday.

Pacheco didn't practice Wednesday, but his return to a limited session a day later indicates that the running back's injury issues are improving ahead of Sunday's regular-season finale against the Chargers. That said, with the Chiefs locked into the No. 3 seed in the AFC playoffs, the team could opt to sit or limit Pacheco in Week 18. If that occurs, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, La'Mical Perine and practice-squad member Keaontay Ingram would be candidates to see added backfield opportunities versus Los Angeles.

Pacheco (quad) won't practice Wednesday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Per the report, Pacheco is dealing with a quad contusion as Sunday's game against the Chargers approaches. Considering that the Chiefs are locked into the No. 3 playoff seed in the AFC, Pacheco is a candidate to be rested this weekend, along with some other key starters. If Pacheco does end up being held out versus Los Angeles, La'Mical Perine and practice squad member Keaontay Ingram could see added backfield opportunities in Week 18.

Pacheco rushed the ball 18 times for 130 yards in Sunday's 25-17 win over the Bengals. He added seven receptions on seven targets for 35 yards and a touchdown.

Pacheco accounted for all of the work out of the Kanas City backfield with Clyde Edwards-Helarie (illness) inactive. He took advantage by gashing the Cincinnati defense for long runs of 37 and 35 yards, helping him tally his highest rushing yardage total of the season and second performance of at least 150 yards from scrimmage. Pacheco also tallied his ninth score of the campaign on an eight-yard touchdown catch late in the first quarter. He needs 65 rushing yards in a Week 18 matchup against the Chargers to crack the century mark for the season.

Pacheco (shoulder) is active for Sunday's game against the Bengals.

Pacheco managed just one limited practice this week while he was tending to a shoulder injury in addition to being included in concussion protocol, but he cleared the five-step protocol Saturday to erase any lingering concern about his availability for the Week 17 contest. Despite his light activity in practice this week, Pacheco could be tasked with handling a heavy workload Sunday, given the lack of established depth behind him. Passing-down specialist Jerick McKinnon (groin) was placed on injured reserve last week, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire (illness) is a surprise inactive Sunday, which leaves recent roster additions La'Mical Perine and Keaontay Ingram as the lone reserve backs behind Pacheco.

Pacheco has cleared concussion protocol and is expected to suit up versus Cincinnati on Sunday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

In addition to suffering a concussion Christmas Day against Las Vegas, Pacheco has also been dealing with a shoulder injury, and he still has a 'questionable' tag for Sunday's game against the Bengals. However, having passed through the league's five-step concussion protocol, the second-year running back is likely to suit up in the Week 17 AFC clash as Kansas City looks to get back on track after losing three of their past four contests. Pacheco's expected ability to play stabilizes a Chiefs backfield that could be without Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who is questionable Sunday with an illness, and that recently lost Jerick McKinnon for the remainder of the regular season due to a groin injury.

Pacheco (concussion/shoulder) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bengals.

Pacheco made an early exit from Monday's loss to the Raiders to get a concussion check, and he eventually was ruled out after the head injury was confirmed. He then didn't practice until Friday, when he went down as a limited participant. Coach Andy Reid told Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com on Friday that Pacheco is in the last stages of the concussion protocol and feels OK. Still, Pacheco will need to gain clearance from an independent neurologist in order to play this weekend, something that'll be confirmed, one way or another, when the Chiefs post their inactives about 90 minutes before a 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. Kansas City's backfield is in flux with Jerick McKinnon (groin) on IR and Clyde Edwards-Helaire missing the final two sessions of Week 17 prep due to an illness, but Pacheco presumably would lead the group if he's able to suit up Sunday.

Pacheco (concussion/shoulder) was spotted at practice Friday, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

It's encouraging that Pacheco's practicing Friday after sitting out Wednesday and Thursday, but he'll have to participate fully with contact to have a chance to clear concussion protocol before Sunday's game against the Bengals. Where Pacheco stands in that regard will be revealed on Friday's injury report. If Pacheco's unable to play Sunday, Clyde Edwards-Helaire (illness) and La'Mical Perine would be in line for larger roles, with possible reinforcements coming from the practice squad in the form of Deneric Prince or Keaontay Ingram.

Pacheco (concussion/shoulder) won't practice Thursday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Pacheco also missed Wednesday's session, so what -- if anything -- he's able to due Friday will loom large in terms of his chances of playing Sunday against the Bengals. Also slated to miss practice Thursday is Clyde Edwards-Helaire (illness), which for now leaves La'Mical Perine as the Chiefs' healthiest running back ahead of Week 17 action.

Pacheco (concussion) won't practice Wednesday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Pacheco sustained a concussion during Monday's loss to the Raiders, and the running back will now have two more chances to practice ahead of Sunday's game against the Bengals. If Pacheco is unable to clear the NFL's concussion protocol ahead of Week 17 action, Clyde Edwards-Helaire and La'Mical Perine would be in line to handle the Chiefs' backfield duties against Cincinnati.

Pacheco was diagnosed with a concussion during Monday's game versus the Raiders and won't return.

At the time of his departure in the third quarter, Pacheco had 11 carries for 26 yards and one touchdown and four catches (on four targets) for zero yards to his name. With Jerick McKinnon (groin) on injured reserve, Clyde Edwards-Helaire is slated to lead the Chiefs backfield moving forward.

Pacheco is under evaluation for a head injury during Monday's game against the Raiders.

Pacheco made a visit to the sideline medical tent late in the third quarter before the Chiefs announced his potential health concern. If he eventually is diagnosed with a concussion, Pacheco will finish Week 16 with 11 carries for 26 yards and one touchdown and four catches (on four targets) for zero yards. With Jerick McKinnon (groin) on injured reserve, Clyde Edwards-Helaire is poised to lead Kansas City's backfield in Pacheco's absence.

Pacheco (shoulder) was a full practice participant Thursday.

As promised by coach Andy Reid earlier this week, Pacheco is back at full strength after missing the past two games and having a minor procedure on his shoulder. He should return to his usual role as the lead back Monday against the Raiders, which presumably means less work for Jerick McKinnon and a much, much smaller role for Clyde Edwards-Helaire.

Coach Andy Reid said Monday that he expects Pacheco (shoulder) to play the following Monday against the Raiders barring a setback, Sam McDowell of The Kansas City Star reports.

Reid revealed that Pacheco was medically cleared to play in this past Sunday's 27-17 win over the Patriots, but the team took a cautious approach and kept the starting running back out. Pacheco's likely to return from a two-game absence on Christmas, and it wouldn't be surprising to see him fully participating in practice as the Chiefs begin preparing for their Week 16 tilt.

Pacheco (shoulder) won't play Sunday against the Patriots, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Per McMullen, coach Andy Reid relayed that Pacheco had a procedure done on his shoulder, but is doing well, with the team anticipating that the running back will return next week ahead of a Dec. 25 contest against the Raiders. In Pacheco's continued absence this weekend, look for Clyde Edwards-Helaire to get another start in Week 15, with Jerick McKinnon also in line to see his share of backfield touches versus New England.

Pacheco (shoulder) wasn't spotted during the initial stages of Friday's practice, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

Pacheco didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday either, so at this stage it looks like he could be ruled out for Sunday's game against the Patriots later Friday. If that ends up being the case, Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon would be in line to lead the Chiefs' Week 15 backfield.

Pacheco (shoulder) won't practice Thursday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Pacheco, who didn't practice last week, also missed Wednesday's session, so unless the running back gets some work in Friday, he could be trending toward another absence Sunday against the Patriots. If Pacheco remains sidelined this weekend, Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon would be in line to lead Kansas City's Week 15 backfield.

Pacheco (shoulder) won't practice Wednesday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Pacheco, who didn't practice last week, now has two more chances to return to the field ahead of Sunday's game against the Patriots. If the running back is unable to play through his shoulder issue this weekend, Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon would once again be in line to lead the Chiefs' backfield in Week 15.

Pacheco, who is out Sunday against the Bills, is believed to be dealing with a shoulder contusion, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Per Rapoport, Pacheco's injury is not considered a long-term issue and the running back isn't expected to land on IR. In his absence versus Buffalo, Clyde Edwards-Helaire is in line to start Sunday, with Jerick McKinnon also slated to see his share work in Kansas City's Week 14 backfield.

Pacheco (shoulder) won't play Sunday against the Bills, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Per Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com, Pacheco is dealing with a shoulder bruise that will sideline him for at least one game. In Pacheco's looming absence, Pete Sweeney of ArrowheadPride.com relays that Clyde Edwards-Helaire is next in line for backfield work in Week 14, with Jerick McKinnon also on hand to work in a third-down role.

Pacheco (shoulder) wasn't spotted at practice Friday, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

Pacheco didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday, so his apparent absence from Friday's session doesn't bode well for his chances of suiting up Sunday against the Bills. Kansas City's upcoming injury report will reveal Pacheco's status for the contest, but if he's ruled out, Pete Sweeney of ArrowheadPride.com suggests that Clyde Edwards-Helaire would be in line to start this weekend, with Jerick McKinnon serving as the team's third-down back.

Pacheco (shoulder) won't practice Thursday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Pacheco didn't practice Wednesday either, which sets the stage for what the running back is able to do during Friday's session -- if anything -- to loom large with regard to his chances of playing Sunday against the Bills. If Pacheco is out or limited this weekend, Jerick McKinnon (groin, limited Wednesday) and Clyde Edwards-Helaire would be candidate for added backfield touches versus Buffalo.

Pacheco will be held out Wednesday's practice due to a shoulder contusion, Sports Radio 810 WHB reports.

It's not an injury that typically would result in missed games, but fantasy managers should nonetheless track Pacheco's practice participation throughout the week. He took on a larger role on passing downs with Jerick McKinnon (groin) out the past two games, though Pacheco's final snap share (70 percent) in a loss to the Packers this past Sunday was impacted by a fourth-quarter ejection for throwing a punch. It was still his second-largest snap share of the season -- behind 78 percent from the previous week's win over Las Vegas -- and he finished the night with a 21 touches for 123 yards and a TD. The Chiefs will face the Bills in a late-afternoon matchup this Sunday, kicking off at 4:25 ET.

Pacheco rushed the ball 18 times for 110 yards and one touchdown in Sunday's 27-19 loss to Green Bay. He added three receptions on four targets for 13 yards.

Per Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com, Pacheco was ejected for throwing a punch in the final moments of the game. However, he managed a strong performance prior to his exit by ripping off long runs of 26, 13 and 11 yards. The end result was his second 100-yard performance of the season, and he supplemented that with a one-yard touchdown plunge early in the third quarter. Pacheco now has six rushing scores on the campaign, half of which have come in his last two games.

Pacheco rushed 15 times for 55 yards and two touchdowns while catching all five of his targets for 34 yards in Sunday's 31-17 win over Las Vegas.

Pacheco punched in a pair of one-yard touchdowns to bolster his usual production as Kansas City's lead running back. The end result was a fantasy score that rivaled the one from his monster performance against the Jets back in Week 4, which had previously stood out as the sophomore's best output to date. Pacheco has now reached 20 combined touches in each of the Chiefs' two games since the team's Week 10 bye after hitting that mark just twice over the previous nine weeks. The physical runner has been able to handle the increased workload while maintaining a firm grasp on the starting job in Kansas City. Pacheco remains a starting option across all formats heading into next Sunday's tilt against Green Bay.

Pacheco rushed 19 time for 89 yards and brought in his only target for two yards in the Chiefs' 21-17 loss to the Eagles on Monday night.

Pacheco ran with his signature hard-charging style all night and surprisingly found success frequently against what had been the league's best run defense coming in. The second-year back's yardage total was his second highest of the season, as was his rushing workload. Pacheco will face an exponentially more palatable matchup on paper in a Week 12 visit to the division-rival Raiders.

Pacheco carried the ball 16 times for 66 yards and failed to catch his only target in Sunday's 21-14 win over the Dolphins.

The second-year running back saw his highest yardage total on the ground since Week 4, bouncing back from a rough performance against the Broncos in which he set season lows in touches and scrimmage yards. Pacheco will head into Kansas City's Week 10 bye averaging 76.1 scrimmage yards per game in 2023, a pace that would have him approaching 1,300 on the year if can keep it up.

Pacheco rushed eight times for 40 yards and caught three of four targets for a net loss of three yards in Sunday's upset loss to Denver.

Pacheco failed to record double-digit carries for the first time since Week 1, and his 11 combined touches set a new low through eight games this season. The 24-year-old still finished as Kansas City's leading rusher while ceding just four combined touches to backups Jerick McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire. Sunday's unexpected game script was the main culprit of Pacheco's lowered usage, as the favored Chiefs were forced to throw more than twice as many times as they ran while playing from behind Sunday. Pacheco remains a plus fantasy play as Kansas City's top backfield option heading into a marquee matchup against Miami in London next Sunday.

Pacheco rushed 13 times for 32 yards and brought in all four targets for 28 yards and a touchdown in the Chiefs' 31-17 win over the Chargers on Sunday.

Pacheco was completely stymied on the ground as his final indicates, but he was able to salvage his fantasy day with his eight-yard touchdown reception late in the fourth quarter to close out the scoring on the day. The touchdown marked Pacheco's first through the air as a pro, and despite the non-productive day on the ground, he encouragingly logged double-digit carries for the sixth straight contest. Pacheco faces a much more palatable positional matchup against the Broncos' suspect run defense on the road in Week 8.

Pacheco rushed 16 times for 62 yards and brought in all six targets for 36 yards in the Chiefs' 19-8 win over the Broncos on Thursday night.

Pacheco was once again the unquestioned lead back for the Chiefs on the night and encouragingly recorded a career-high number of receptions alongside his solid rushing yardage total. The hard-charging second-year back's development as a receiver has helped round out his fantasy profile in the early going this season, and he now has multiple catches in four of six games. Pacheco also has at least 15 carries in four consecutive contests heading into a Week 7 home matchup against the Chargers on Sunday, Oct. 22.

Pacheco carried the ball 16 times for 55 yards and a touchdown and caught his only target for nine yards in Sunday's 27-20 win over the Vikings.

The second-year RB got into the end zone for the third straight game, opening the scoring exactly five minutes into the first quarter with a one-yard TD plunge. Pacheco has seized firm control of the top job in the Kansas City backfield with 302 rushing yards, three TDs and 4.8 yards per carry over the last four contests, and he could break out in Week 6 against a Broncos run defense that just surrendered 177 yards to the Jets' Breece Hall -- only the second-highest rushing total Denver's given up to a running back in 2023.

Pacheco had 20 carries for 115 yards and a touchdown while adding 43 receiving yards on three receptions in Sunday's 23-20 win over the Jets.

Pacheco did most of his damage on a perfectly-executed counter play call in which he followed pulling guard Trey Smith through a sizeable hole that the speedy back took from midfield to the house. It was the 24-year-old's second rushing touchdown in as many weeks, and it came on a season-high 23 touches. Backfield mates Jerick McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire received three carries a piece, but neither made much of an impact in the box score. Pacheco has become the clear top option out of Kansas City's backfield, which is a fruitful place to sit from a fantasy perspective so long as Patrick Mahomes is under center. Pacheco will lead the Chiefs' ground attack in a plus matchup against the Vikings next Sunday.

Pacheco (hamstring) had 15 carries for 62 yards and a touchdown while catching two of three targets for 16 receiving yards in Sunday's 41-10 win over Chicago.

Pacheco was able to suit up after being labeled a game-time decision earlier in the week due to a hamstring injury. The 24-year-old wound up playing his full share of snaps while leading the team in rushing Sunday. Pacheco had good burst on his first touchdown run of the season, showing no lingering effects from his recent injury. The 2022 seventh-round pick split rushing duties with Clyde Edwards-Helaire (15-55-1) while Jerick McKinnon cashed in two short receiving scores. The Chiefs should continue mixing in all three backs this season, but Pacheco likely provides the most-consistent role for fantasy purposes.

Pacheco (hamstring) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Bears.

After missing Wednesday's practice Pacheco logged limited sessions Thursday and Friday, and he'll give it a go Sunday. In the absence of any in-game setbacks, Pacheco should continue to pace the Chiefs' backfield in Week 3, with Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon available to handle complementary/change-of-pace work. Through the first two games of the season, Pacheco has recorded 20 carries for 93 yards and a TD and has caught five of his six targets for 31 yards. In that that span, Edwards-Helaire and McKinnon have combined for eight carries and seven catches.

Pacheco (hamstring) is expected to suit up Sunday versus Chicago, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Pacheco is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's contest and was at one point considered a game-time decision, but it looks like he's on track to take on the Bears. Expect official confirmation on Pacheco's status when the Chiefs' inactive list is released roughly 90 minutes prior to Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. If indeed active, Pacheco could benefit from a favorable game script against a Chicago defense allowing 32.5 points per game.

Pacheco (hamstring) is deemed a game-time decision for Sunday's contest against the Bears, but the Chiefs are optimistic that he'll be able to suit up, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Pacheco's hamstring injury impacted his practice reps all week, keeping him sidelined Wednesday before he got in limited sessions Thursday and Friday. Still, he received a questionable tag entering the weekend. Kansas City doesn't kick things off until 4:25 p.m. ET on Sunday, so there will be less available running backs to pivot to if Pacheco ends up being inactive. The current in-house options are Jerick McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire.

Pacheco (hamstring) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Bears, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

Pacheco turned in limited practices Thursday and Friday after missing Wednesday's practice, so his availability could come down to a true game-time decision. Even if he plays, Kansas City may choose to take a cautious approach with its top running back so as to not exacerbate the injury. If Pacheco gets his usual workload, though, he could be in store for a productive afternoon against an 0-2 Bears team that's giving up 32.5 PPG. Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon could see more usage if Pacheco sits.

Pacheco (hamstring) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

Pacheco was withheld from Wednesday's session due to the hamstring issue, but his return to practice in a limited fashion a day later suggests he's not dealing with an overly severe injury. The running back isn't in the clear for Sunday's game against the Bears just yet, however. The Chiefs may want to see Pacheco replicate his limited practice activity Friday or upgrade to full participation before clearing him to handle lead-back duties this weekend.

Pacheco (hamstring) was spotted on the field for the media-access portion of Thursday's practice, Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com reports.

Pacheco was sidelined for the Chiefs' first Week 3 practice Wednesday, but he looks poised to get in some work Thursday. The Chiefs will release their second practice report of the week later in the day, when it will become known whether Pacheco was a limited or full practice participant.

Pacheco (hamstring) won't practice Wednesday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Per Sam McDowell of The Kansas City Star, coach Andy Reid noted that Pacheco is not dealing with a hamstring tear, with the running back falling into the day-to-day category ahead of Sunday's game against the Bears. If Pacheco winds up out of limited at all this weekend, Jerick McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire are available to absorb added backfield touches in Week 3.

Pacheco rushed 12 times for 70 yards and caught one of two targets for no gain in Sunday's 17-9 win over Jacksonville.

Kansas City's other running backs combined for minus-2 rushing yards, so Pacheco is the team's clear-cut top option on the ground, but he was a non-factor as a receiver after catching all four of his targets for 31 yards in Week 1. The Chiefs are averaging only 19.0 PPG after scoring a league-best 29.2 PPG in 2022. Pacheco's opportunities to score should increase once Kansas City's offense gets going, and a Week 3 visit from the 0-2 Bears presents a golden opportunity to do just that.

Pachecho rushed eight times for 23 yards and secured all four targets for 31 yards in the Chiefs' 21-20 loss to the Lions on Thursday night.

Pacheco outpaced Clyde Edwards-Helaire by just two carries, but the second-year back was much more involved as a receiver than usual thanks in large part to the absence of Travis Kelce (knee). Pacheco did find running room at a premium thanks to what appears to be a significantly improved Lions rush defense, yet his overall usage was relatively encouraging and lends credence to the notion Pacheco should operate as a No. 1 back this season, even if only by a modest margin. If Kelce returns to action in a Week 2 road matchup against the Jaguars a week from Sunday, Pacheco may see less involvement through the air but also go up against a softer defensive front than the one he encountered Thursday night.

Pacheco carried the ball one time for zero yards in Saturday's 33-32 preseason win over the Browns.

Pacheco was cleared for contact Monday after recovering from offseason shoulder surgery and was able to make his preseason debut five days later. He was the third back on the field behind Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon, though all three played on the team's first offensive possession. It appears that Pacheco will be healthy heading into a Week 1 matchup against the Lions, though he may be a part of a rotation that also involves Edwards-Helaire and McKinnon.

Pacheco (shoulder) is in uniform ahead of Saturday's preseason finale against the Browns, Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com and Adam Teicher of ESPN.com report.

It remains to be seen how much, if any, action Pacheco sees Saturday, but Derrick suggests that the running back could see a few touches. Either way, it appears as though Pacheco is on track to be available for Week 1 action, barring any setbacks.

Pacheco (shoulder) is present for Monday's practice in a red jersey, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

Pacheco has shed his non-contact jersey for the first time in training camp, and coach Andy Reid said "there's a chance" he suits up for his preseason debut in Saturday's exhibition finale against the Browns, per Nate Taylor of The Athletic. The Chiefs had long listed Aug. 20 as Pacheco's target date for contact clearance, so he remains right on track in his recovery. As such, it looks like the second-year pro is still on track for Week 1.

Pacheco (hand/shoulder) won't play in Sunday's preseason opener against the Saints, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.

This development comes as no surprise since Pacheco has been limited in practice as he continues to recover from a pair of offseason surgeries. The running back is expected to be available for Week 1 of the regular season in September, but Pacheco may not play much, if at all, during the August exhibition slate.

GM Brett Veach expects both Pacheco (hand/shoulder) and WR Kadarius Toney (knee) to be available for the Chiefs' regular season opener against the Lions, Adam Teicher of ESPN reports.

"Organizationally, we feel pretty good those guys will be ready to play, barring no setbacks,'' Veach noted of the banged up duo. "I think we're in a good place with both of those guys.'' Pacheco, who underwent offseason surgeries on his hand and shoulder, has been a limited practice participant during training camp and to date hasn't be cleared for contact. Once he's fully up to speed, Pacheco figures to work as the Chiefs' lead back, but returnees Jerick McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire are also candidates to see their share of backfield touches for the team, while UDFA Deneric Prince continues to make a case to secure a depth role ahead of Week 1.

Pacheco (hand/shoulder) is on track to be cleared for contact by Aug. 20, James Palmer of NFL Network reports.

While the significance of the mentioned date is unclear, it would give Pacheco an 18-day grace period before the Chiefs open the regular season against Detroit on Sept. 7. In other words, he'll have plenty of time to ramp up and get in game shape for Week 1 if he does in fact gain clearance for contact on or before Aug. 20. In the meantime, Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon have been getting a lot of first-team reps at training camp, while undrafted rookie Deneric Price has become the subject of summer hype despite mostly working with the backups. Pacheco still projects as the lead runner of the group on the heels of his solid rookie season, but it could end up being a three/four-man committee rather than the two-way Pacheco/McKinnon split from the latter portion of last season. Pacheco's shoulder is said to be the lone health concern at this point, while his hand is fully recovered from offseason surgery.

Pacheco (hand/shoulder) continues to wear a non-contact jersey but has been expanding his play count in 7-on-7 drills, Matt Derrick of Chiefs Digest reports.

It's a good sign that Pacheco's already starting to expand his reps early in training camp. The running back had surgeries to repair a broken hand and torn labrum in the offseason, but Pacheco is on track to be cleared before the beginning of the regular season. He's likely to play a prominent role once healthy, but it wouldn't be surprising to see Pacheco sit out most or all of the preseason.

Pacheco (hand/shoulder) said Thursday he will "absolutely" be 100 percent for Week 1 versus the Lions, Pete Sweeney of ArrowheadPride.com reports.

Pacheco continues to practice in a yellow non-contact jersey as he works his way back from offseason surgeries to address a broken hand and a torn labrum, but it looks like he has no real concerns about his regular-season availability. Barring any setbacks in his recovery, Pacheco looks to be facing a real opportunity to cement himself as the top man in Kansas City's backfield, which also houses Jerick McKinnon, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, La'Mical Perine and Deneric Prince. Coach Andy Reid previously said Pacheco could be a candidate to start training camp on the PUP list, so his participation level still warrants monitoring.

One day after coach Andy Reid indicated that Pacheco (hand/shoulder) was a candidate to start training camp on the PUP list, the running back worked out with Kansas City's quarterbacks and rookies during Wednesday's practice, Jesse Newell of the Kansas City Star reports.

The report notes that Pacheco, who led the Chiefs with 830 rushing yards last season, participated in much of Wednesday's session while sporting a yellow non-contact jersey and didn't work in 7-on-7 drills. Per Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com, it seems likely that the team will limit Pacheco early on in training camp, but barring any setbacks, the 24-year-old will have an opportunity this summer to cement his status as the top option in a Kansas City backfield that also includes Jerick McKinnon, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, La'Mical Perine and Deneric Prince.

Pacheco (hand/shoulder) participated in Wednesday's practice, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

Per Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com, Pacheco appeared to be a full participant in the session, though the running back was wearing a yellow (no contact) jersey. Still, Pacheco's presence on the field Wednesday bodes well for both his training camp status and regular-season availability.

Coach Andy Reid said Tuesday that the Chiefs will soon decide whether Pacheco (hand) is starting training camp on an injured list, Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports.

They might place Pacheco on the PUP list, which doesn't mean much until the regular season other than confirming he's not ready to practice. The second-year pro had multiple surgeries this offseason after playing through a broken hand and torn labrum in the Super Bowl win over Philadelphia in February. The Chiefs didn't add much to their backfield this spring -- undrafted rookie Deneric Prince is the only new face -- and seemingly expect Pacheco to be ready for Week 1 even if he misses the start of training camp.

Pacheco (hand/shoulder) may not be cleared for the start of training camp, Nate Taylor of The Athletic reports.

Pacheco played through a broken hand and torn labrum in the Super Bowl, then had surgeries on both injuries in the weeks following the big game. He subsequently missed spring practices and may now miss time at the start of training camp, but there hasn't been any indication of pessimism about his Week 1 availability. Once he's healthy, the 2022 seventh-round pick seemingly will face less-than-stellar competition for early down snaps, as the K.C. backfield otherwise consists of Jerick McKinnon, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, La'Mical Perine and Deneric Prince -- a quartet that accounted for 593 NFL rushing yards last season. There was some spring buzz around Price, an undrafted rookie, while Edwards-Helaire looms as a dark-horse rebound candidate in the fourth and final season of his contract.

Head coach Andy Reid said Monday that Pacheco is doing well after offseason surgeries to repair a broken bone in his hand and a torn labrum, but the running back doesn't have a return timeline yet, James Palmer of NFL Network reports.

Pacheco played through the injuries during the 2022 campaign and didn't miss a game, totaling 1,027 rushing yards and six touchdowns across 20 matchups (including the postseason). The offseason surgeries appear to have been minor, so the second-year running back should be good to go by the start of 2023. His availability during OTAs and other offseason workouts will likely provide further clarity on his rehab process and may provide a potential return timeline.

Head coach Andy Reid said Monday that Pacheco is doing well after offseason surgeries to repair a broken bone in his hand and a torn labrum, but the running back doesn't have a return timeline yet, James Palmer of NFL Network reports.

Pacheco played through the injuries during the 2022 campaign and didn't miss a game, totaling 1,027 rushing yards and six touchdowns across 20 matchups (including the postseason). His availability during OTAs and other offseason workouts should provide further clarity on his rehab process and may provide a potential return timeline.

Pacheco carried the ball 15 times for 76 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 38-35 Super Bowl win over the Eagles.

Pacheco dominated work out of the Chiefs' backfield, out-carrying Jerick McKinnon 15-4. He was productive with the work, highlighted by a long gain of 24 yards and also a one-yard touchdown plunge midway through the third quarter. After a surprisingly impressive rookie season during which he posted 830 rushing yards and five touchdowns across 17 regular-season games, Pacheco is likely to factor heavily into Kansas City's offensive plans in 2023.

Pacheco rushed 10 times for 26 yards and secured five of six targets for 59 yards during the Chiefs' 23-20 win over the Bengals in Sunday's AFC Championship Game. He also returned two kickoffs for 45 yards.

Pacheco, who did an excellent job breaking tackles and getting to the second level throughout his rookie season, somewhat surprisingly found running room at a premium throughout Sunday's game. However, with the Chiefs' wideout depth chart suffering some serious in-game attrition thanks to injuries to JuJu Smith-Schuster (knee), Mecole Hardman (pelvis) and Kadarius Toney (ankle), Pacheco recorded his highest reception, receiving yardage and target totals as a pro yet. The Rutgers product showed off some of the same penchant for getting past first contact as a pass catcher, and depending on the health of the aforementioned wideouts and backfield mate Clyde Edwards-Helaire (IR-ankle), Pacheco could be in for another busy day in the Super Bowl LVII matchup against the Eagles on Sunday, Feb. 12.

Pacheco rushed the ball 12 times for 95 yards in Saturday's 27-20 win over the Jaguars. He added one reception for six yards.

Pacheco paced the Chiefs' backfield with 13 touches, and he was narrowly more involved than Jerick McKinnon. Pacheco made the most of his opportunity, and his effort was highlighted by a 39-yard gain midway through the second quarter -- a run that set up a one-yard touchdown catch for Travis Kelce two plays later. It remains to be seen how work will be split between Pacheco and McKinnon moving forward, particularly if the Chiefs find themselves in negative game script at any point during the AFC Championship Game.

Pacheco rushed the ball eight times for 64 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 31-13 win over the Raiders.

Pacheco paced the Chiefs in rushing yards, primarily thanks to a 31-yard scamper early in the fourth quarter. He also tallied his fifth rushing touchdown of the season on a one-yard plunge to cap the same offensive possession. Pacheco ends his rookie season having racked up 170 rushing attempts and 830 yards, though it remains to be seen how much he is trusted by the team during the postseason.

Pacheco rushed nine times for 31 yards and a touchdown and brought in both targets for 18 yards in the Chiefs' 27-24 win over the Broncos on Sunday.

Pacheco's five-yard touchdown rush just before the halfway point of the first quarter opened the scoring on the day. The rookie's trip to the end zone was his first since Week 13, although his carries were his fewest since Week 9. Fantasy managers holding Pacheco on Week 18 fantasy championship rosters will hope for a larger rushing workload in a road matchup against the vulnerable Raiders defense in Kansas City's regular-season finale, in which they'll still be aiming for the top seed in the AFC.

Pacheco rushed 14 times for 58 yards and caught one of two targets for 32 receiving yards in Saturday's 24-10 win over Seattle.

Pacheco led Kansas City's backfield with 14 carries, out-touching Jerick McKinnon 15 to eight. The former got the heavier workload as the team chewed up clock up two scores in the second half. Pacheco continues to outproduce his veteran teammate on the ground, but it has been McKinnon providing superior fantasy value with five touchdowns over his last three games (including another receiving touchdown Saturday). The 23-year-old has been providing a high fantasy floor since taking over for Clyde Edwards-Helaire midseason, and he could see see his value soar if he can convert more opportunities from in close for scores. Pacheco remains a solid play against the Broncos next Sunday.

Pacheco rushed 15 times for 86 yards and brought in his only target for 11 yards in the Chiefs' 30-24 overtime win over the Texans on Sunday. He also returned three kickoffs for 47 yards and lost a fumble.

The rookie put together yet another efficient effort on the ground, but he did cough up the ball for the fourth time the season, which led to his second lost fumble. That second-quarter gaffe -- which did lead to a Texans touchdown -- aside, Pacheco was once again explosive on his rush attempts and also pulled double duty on special teams. That said, veteran backfield mate Jerick McKinnon stole the show by recording a rushing and receiving touchdown on his 18 touches, the former serving as the game-winning score. Nevertheless, Pacheco seems likely to continue enjoying a primary early-down role in a Week 16 home matchup against the Seahawks on Saturday afternoon.

Pacheco carried the ball 13 times for 70 yards and caught all three of his targets for 23 yards in Sunday's 34-28 win over the Broncos.

The rookie took a back seat to Jerick McKinnon in this one as his veteran backfield mate piled up 134 combined yards and two receiving TDs, but Pacheco still posted the second-highest scrimmage yards total of his young career. He seems poised for success in Week 15 against a Texans defense that just coughed up 143 combined yards and three touchdowns to the Cowboys RB duo of Tony Pollard and Ezekiel Elliott.

Pacheco carried the ball 14 times for 66 yards and a touchdown and caught both his targets for 16 yards in Sunday's 27-24 loss to the Bengals.

It was another strong showing for the rookie, who has racked up 324 rushing yards and two TDs over the last four games since taking over the top spot in the Kansas City backfield. Pacheco will never be a focal point of an offense with Patrick Mahomes under center, but he's providing solid fantasy value heading into a Week 14 clash with the Broncos.

Pacheco carried the ball 22 times for 69 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 26-10 win over the Rams. He also caught his only target for 17 yards.

In his third game as the lead early-down back for Kansas City, Pacheco saw his yards per carry regress but he made up for it by getting into the end zone for the first time since Week 1. The rookie running back has 258 rushing yards over that three-game stretch, and he figures to see plenty of work again in Week 13 against the Bengals.

Pacheco rushed 15 times for 107 yards in Sunday's 30-27 win over the Chargers. He was not targeted in the passing game.

Pacheco led Kansas City's rushing attack for the second consecutive week, rewarding the coaching decision with his first career 100-yard rushing game. Clyde Edwards-Helaire (ankle) went down before halftime and did not return, but he was already being phased out of the offensive gameplan due to inconsistent play. Jerick McKinnon remained involved with seven touches for 24 yards, but he lost a fumble late in the fourth quarter that nearly cost the Chiefs the game. Pacheco is looking more and more like the clear lead back on a potent offense, which should have fantasy managers excited heading into a Week 12 matchup against the Rams next Sunday.

Pacheco rushed 16 times for 82 yards in the Chiefs' 27-17 win over the Jaguars on Sunday.

The rookie put together a solid effort overall with a career-high carry total, setting a new high-water mark in rushing yardage in the process. Pacheco has now produced over 60 rushing yards on all three occasions in which he's logged double-digit attempts, but typically, head coach Andy Reid doesn't give his ground attack as much attention as it received Sunday.

Pacheco recorded five carries for five yards and caught their only target for four yards during Sunday's 20-17 overtime victory over the Titans.

Pacheco started the game but finished the night with only 22 total offensive snaps (22 percent), surpassing Clyde Edwards-Helaire (17 snaps) but falling well short of Jerrick McKinnon (62 snaps). Game script played a role in this snap distribution, with McKinnon being the team's primary passing-down back and Kansas City trailing for much of the second half. Still, it's worth noting that McKinnon played the entire overtime drive when the game was even. Regardless, it's a fluid Chiefs backfield situation where none of the trio holds a consistent weekly value from a fantasy perspective.

Pacheco rushed eight times for 43 yards in Sunday's 44-23 win over San Francisco. He was not targeted in the passing game.

Pacheco got the start over Clyde Edwards-Helaire (6-32-1) as previously reported, but it ended up being more of a committee approach with four non-QB Chiefs receiving two or more carries. The electric rookie actually finished with more carries in two previous games as a backup this season than he did in his first career start. The 23-year-old would need to see more than eight touches to become a reliable fantasy asset, but he should be rostered -- even with Kansas City's upcoming bye week -- after being named the starter on a potent offense. Pacheco and the Chiefs will take on the Titans on Nov. 6 in Week 9.

Pacheco took first-team reps in practice this week and is a candidate to start Sunday's game against the 49ers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Pacheco logged just two carries in Kansas City's Week 6 loss to the Bills, but per Rapoport, the 2022 seventh-rounder is expected to draw the start Sunday, while Clyde Edwards-Helaire will still maintain a key role on offense and Jerick McKinnon mixes in. The report suggest that both Pacheco and Edwards-Helaire are expected to see significant snaps versus the 49ers, and in that context Pacheco could have a chance to yield Week 7 fantasy dividends for those in need of RB help.

Pacheco rushed two times for nine yards and caught both of his targets for nine yards in Sunday's 24-20 loss to the Bills.

Pacheco was ineffective on limited touches in a game where the Chiefs struggled to get anything going on the ground. Though the rookie running back has shown flashes of talent when involved, he remains difficult to trust for fantasy purposes in Kansas City's backfield rotation. Pacheco will likely find himself in an uphill battle for touches when the Chiefs visit the 49ers in Week 7.

Pacheco handled one carry for no gain and was not target during Monday's game versus the Raiders.

Pacheco had seemingly broke through a barrier last week to the tune of 11 carries for 63 yards against the Buccaneers, but he followed that with a goose egg in production Monday on just two offensive snaps. The rookie doesn't play consistently enough to warrant lineup consideration at this point and is primarily viewed as a bench stash or dynasty league piece in a fluid Chiefs backfield.

Pacheco rushed 11 times for 63 yards in Sunday's 41-31 win over Tampa Bay.

Pacheco was limited to just five snaps last week, so it was surprising to see him usurp Jerick McKinnon (two carries for negative one yard) as the change-of-pace back behind Clyde Edwards-Helaire. The seventh-round pick took full advantage of the increased playing time, running with purpose and needing multiple defenders to bring him to a halt. Pacheco may not have immediate fantasy value against the Raiders next Monday -- especially with CEH going off this week -- but his stock definitely rose following Sunday's performance.

Pacheco recorded three carries for nine yards during Sunday's 20-17 loss against Indianapolis.

On a positive note, Pacheco received targets on 60 percent of the snaps he was in the game. He's the clear No. 3 in Kansas City's rotation but could step into a larger role in future weeks should either Clyde Edwards-Helaire or Jerick McKinnon miss time.

Pacheco had two rushes for six yards during Thursday's 27-24 victory against the Chargers.

Pacheco logged 16 snaps in the opener due to the blowout nature of the contest, so it's no surprise his workload shrunk to just five snaps in Week 2. He doesn't look to be in line to play considerable snaps on offense consistently but could claim an expanded role should Clyde Edwards-Helaire or Jerrick McKinnon miss time.

Pacheco carried the ball 12 times for 62 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 44-21 win over the Cardinals.

Most of his production came in the second half after Kansas City has already built a big lead, but it was still an impressive NFL debut for the 2022 seventh-round pick. All three members of the team's backfield saw significant action, with Clyde Edwards-Helaire turning 10 touches into 74 scrimmage yards and two receiving TDs while Jerick McKinnon added 49 scrimmage yards on seven touches, so Pacheco's big showing doesn't catapult him to the top of the depth chart. With Kansas City flashing a more diverse scheme without having Tyreek Hill to lean on, however, there could be enough work for multiple backs to be fantasy assets in any given week.

Pacheco survived cut-down day Tuesday and made the Chiefs' initial roster along with running backs Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Jerick McKinnon and Ronald Jones.

After the team cut Derrick Gore and undrafted rookie Tayon Fleet-Davis the past five days, there was anticipation the team could do the same with Pacheco, McKinnon or Jones to trim the roster from 80 to 53 players. Instead, though, coach Andy Reid decided to hang on to all three. It's unknown who will get the initial chance to spell Edwards-Helaire, but Pacheco, a 2022 seventh-rounder, flashed some during the preseason, notching 16 carries for 66 yards (4.1 YPC) and reeling in all three targets for 21 yards. With Jones also making the team, Pacheco may still be able to get on the field right away due to his all-around ability.

Pacheco carried the ball 10 times for 52 yards in Thursday's preseason game against the Packers. He also returned one kickoff for 17 yards.

Most of the rookie's touches came in the second half, but Pacheco did spot in on Kansas City's second drive of the night and saw his 18-yard carry wiped out by a holding penalty. The team's backfield still seems unsettled behind starter Clyde Edwards-Helaire, as Ronald Jones also played well Thursday while Jerick McKinnon saw limited action in passing situations, but Pacheco's performance this preseason should at the very least have him locked into a spot on the 53-man roster.

Pacheco rushed four times for eight yards and caught both of his targets for 16 yards in Saturday's 24-14 preseason win over Washington.

Pacheco played the second drive alongside Patrick Mahomes after Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon both mixed in on the first. The rookie also had one kickoff return for 26 yards and was the only player to attempt a kickoff return for Kansas City. Pacheco's ability to contribute on special teams is one of the traits that seems to have propelled him ahead of Ronald Jones on the depth chart, as Jones didn't touch the ball until the third quarter.

Pacheco, who Nate Taylor of The Athletic calls "most surprising star of camp," logged just two carries in Kansas City's preseason opener, but could see more opportunities Saturday against Washington.

Heading into training camp, there was speculation that Ronald Jones could potentially overtake Clyde Edwards-Helaire for the Chiefs' starting RB role, but at this stage Taylor suggests that Jones may no longer be a roster lock. Meanwhile, Pacheco's stock seems to be on the rise, and if the 2022 seventh-rounder continues to impress, he could carve out an early-season role in a backfield that also includes Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon.

Pacheco carried the ball twice for six yards while adding one catch for five yards in Saturday's preseason loss to Chicago.

Pacheco seems to be buried on the Chiefs' running back depth chart, but two of his three touches came during the first series of the game, Patrick Mahomes' lone drive. Clyde Edwards-Helaire received Kansas City's first two carries, but it was Pacheco, not Ronald Jones, who received the third. That follows reports of Pacheco impressing Andy Reid in training camp, so it's possible the seventh-rounder has a chance to push for a meaningful role this season.

Pacheco has caught the eye of coach Andy Reid during training camp, Nate Taylor of The Athletic reports. "He's got a little juice," Reid noted Wednesday of Pacheco, while adding Saturday: "The things you're guaranteed of are that he's going to run hard. Will he have to learn the different schemes and how they work against certain defenses and at times be patient? He'll learn that. But he's going to run hard."

The report also notes that Pacheco, who the Chiefs took in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft, has demonstrated some reliability as a receiver out of the backfield. Though Clyde Edwards-Helaire continues to profile as the team's top backfield option, per Charles Goldman of The USA Today, Pacheco, who has logged reps with both the first- and second-team offense, appears to be pushing for a complementary role, with Ronald Jones, Jerick McKinnon and Derrick Gore also vying for depth chart slotting. In any case, Pacheco is a player worth monitoring in the preseason, where Taylor suggests that the 5-foot-10, 216-pound Rutgers product can make his case to secure Kansas City's primary kickoff return job as well factor in on the team's offense as an all-around back.

Pacheco will enter the preseason as Kansas City's top kick returner, Nate Taylor of The Athletic reports.

It's good news for his fantasy outlook in the sense that it improves Pacheco's odds of overcoming his first challenge -- earning a spot on the Week 1 roster. He's of more interest than a typical seventh-round pick, having landed in a top offense after running a 4.37-second 40-yard dash at 216 pounds. Pacheco's college production was far less impressive, never going beyond 812 total yards in a season, but that's largely on account of playing for overmatched teams at Rutgers, where Pacheco won 11 games (and lost 35) in four seasons. He'll have a much better setup in Kansas City if he can eventually find his way onto the field. For now, he's working behind Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Jerick McKinnon, Ronald Jones and Derrick Gore in practice, though Gore in particular appears vulnerable to challenge.

The Chiefs selected Pacheco in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft, 251st overall.

Pacheco might be a mere seventh-round pick, but don't count him out. He was one of the most athletic running backs at the combine, boasting a 4.37-second 40 at a sturdy 5-foot-10, 216 pounds, and he runs with a noticeable motor on tape. His production at Rutgers was quite bad, but it's worth considering an exemption in his case given how dysfunctional the offensive line and quarterbacks were on that team. The odds are not in Pacheco's favor as a seventh-round pick and he's well behind Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Ronald Jones, but just keep an eye on him.