Following a tumultuous 2024 season marred by injury, Isiah Pacheco is making waves as he draws high praise from head coach Andy Reid and the Chiefs’ coaching staff. After missing nine games due to a fractured fibula, Pacheco’s resurgence is certainly encouraging news for Kansas City fans.
One of Pacheco’s key objectives during the offseason was to put on weight after losing more than he intended while recovering last year. Reid has noticed the change in the young running back, saying, “He looks good. Physically, he looks real good. He’s put on a couple pounds of good weight. He’d gotten himself down there a little bit last year and leaned up, but, man, I think he looks tremendous right now.” It’s clear that the extra muscle is making a difference.
Pacheco himself weighed in on the transformation. He confidently shared with the Kansas City Star, “Just going back to 216, 4.37 Isiah Pacheco-style.” His dedication is palpable as he reflects on the uphill battle of regaining weight during the hectic season. “You’re out there working your tail off and just sweating every day and not eating enough to get the weight back,” he said, highlighting the importance of the offseason and the structured program the Chiefs have in place.
The broken leg has understandably complicated Pacheco’s performance, limiting him from regaining his pre-injury form throughout the campaign. This hiccup placed some strain on Kansas City’s typically reliable run game, underscoring how crucial Pacheco’s contributions are to the offense.
However, all signs point to Pacheco putting the struggles of last season behind him as he gears up to reclaim his role as the Chiefs’ dynamic force in the backfield. As a seventh-round pick out of Rutgers, Pacheco has evolved into a critical piece of the puzzle for Kansas City, and with a healthy return, he might just be the catalyst needed to keep the Chiefs firmly in the championship conversation.
