Isiah Pacheco Injury Update
Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco suffered a sprained MCL in his knee late in the Week 8 win over the Washington Commanders, earning a week-to-week designation. He missed Week 9 against the Buffalo Bills and Week 11's 22-19 loss to the Denver Broncos, with the team's Week 10 bye aiding recovery. Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) reported on X that #Chiefs RB Isiah Pacheco, who left Monday night’s win with a knee injury, is considered week-to-week with an MCL sprain, according to sources.
Pacheco did not practice at all last week out of the bye, but head coach Andy Reid announced he would return to practice on Wednesday, his first session since the injury, putting him on track for a potential Week 12 activation against the Indianapolis Colts. Matt Derrick (@mattderrick) shared on X that Chiefs RB Isiah Pacheco is back at practice with a brace on his right knee, while WR Xavier Worthy is present but not practicing after tweaking his ankle in this morning's walk-through.
Typical recovery for an MCL sprain ranges from 3-4 weeks for lower-grade injuries to 4-6 weeks overall, depending on severity and stability tests. His absence now spans three weeks, including the bye, with no team update altering the cautious approach as of Wednesday morning.
Will Isiah Pacheco Play Week 12?
Pacheco's status remains truly questionable, hinging on midweek practice participation and medical clearance. A limited-to-full progression by Friday would make a return realistic, but consecutive DNPs or limited sessions without advancement point to Week 13.
Projections peg his chances at 50/50 at best, with Wednesday's injury report key to monitoring movement from sidelined to ramping up. The lack of an injured reserve stint is a modest positive, signaling no expectation of a multi-week hold beyond four. Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) reported on X that Chiefs RB Isiah Pacheco will return to practice on Wednesday.
Isiah Pacheco Fantasy Football Outlook
While out, Kareem Hunt has solidified as the lead back, delivering volume-based RB2 production and handling the bulk of carries. If Pacheco sits again, Hunt continues as a touchdown-dependent flex with steady touches in Andy Reid's offense. A return would revert to a split backfield, capping both as mid-range options Hunt less productive overall in 2025 despite the role. Rookie Brashard Smith remains irrelevant with minimal snaps. Stash Pacheco for upside, but prioritize Hunt for Week 12 stability pending practice clarity.
Disclaimer:
This article provides injury updates and fantasy football insights for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, and player statuses can change quickly. Always check official team reports before making lineup decisions. The author assumes no responsibility for consequences resulting from the use of this information.
