The Kansas City Chiefs have been relatively settled at running back in recent seasons, thanks largely to the efforts of Isiah Pacheco. However, with Pacheco facing some injury setbacks and entering a contract year, the dynamics of the backfield could be shifting soon.
Last season, Pacheco’s impact on the field was less noticeable, particularly following his return from injury. In fact, he managed to surpass 50 rushing yards in only two games throughout the year, which raises some eyebrows considering the circumstances surrounding his impending contract negotiations. With the decision from general manager Brett Veach not to extend Pacheco before the season, it’s clear the Chiefs’ front office is keenly aware of the stakes involved.
This isn’t unfamiliar territory for Veach and the Chiefs. The organization has a track record of unearthing talent capable of stepping in and filling crucial roles, especially as they look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft. Here, they have an opportunity to secure a potential replacement for Pacheco, ensuring that their ground game remains competitive, even if it’s not the primary focus of their offensive scheme.
One intriguing prospect making waves is Damien Martinez, a running back out of the University of Miami. His name has surfaced prominently on the Chiefs’ radar, and Kansas City has scheduled an evaluation visit with Martinez to further assess his fit within their system.
Over the course of his collegiate career, Martinez amassed an impressive 3,173 rushing yards along with 26 touchdowns. In his most recent season, he hit the ground running with 1,006 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to break through tackles — 722 yards after contact and 42 forced missed tackles are testaments to his tenacity and skill.
At just 21 years old, Martinez presents a tantalizing blend of youth and talent that could significantly enhance the Chiefs’ offense. His remarkable balance and willingness to engage in contact make him an ideal candidate to step into the shoes of Pacheco, should that need arise. As Kansas City looks to solidify their roster for future success, watching how they navigate this potential addition could be crucial for their offensive strategy moving forward.
