Chiefs’ Running Back Pacheco Likely Out for Bills Showdown

Kansas City Chiefs’ leading rusher, Isiah Pacheco, is expected to miss the team’s upcoming game against the Buffalo Bills due to a knee ligament sprain sustained in last week’s victory over the Washington Commanders. Pacheco did not participate in practice on Wednesday, which raises concerns ahead of the highly anticipated rematch of last year’s AFC Championship Game.

With Pacheco sidelined, Kareem Hunt is positioned to take on a larger role in the Chiefs’ offense. Hunt has primarily served as the short-yardage back this season, contributing significantly to the team’s success on fourth downs, where they have converted 14 of 16 attempts. The Chiefs are counting on Hunt, alongside backups Brashard Smith and Elijah Mitchell, to fill the void left by Pacheco.

Pacheco has made a notable impact this season, rushing for a total of 329 yards over the first eight weeks. He recorded 12 carries for 58 yards before injuring his knee during Monday night’s game. This injury marks a setback for Pacheco, who also missed part of last season due to a fractured fibula.

Chiefs’ head coach Andy Reid acknowledged Pacheco’s toughness, stating, “He’s moving around. But tough kid. There was a point where he wanted to go back in [Monday] and I wouldn’t let him. That’s how he’s wired. You have to cut his legs off to stop him.”

Hunt, who rejoined the Chiefs in March 2023 on a contract worth $1.5 million, proved capable during Pacheco’s absence last season. Reid commented on Hunt’s current condition, saying, “He’s probably in better shape… But he’s had a year to do it, and kind of get back in the swing after having a little bit of a layoff there.”

Although Hunt has yet to exceed 13 carries in a game this season, he remains optimistic about his performance, stating, “I feel the best I’ve felt the last three or four years. Body is feeling good.”

As the Chiefs prepare for the Bills, Smith, a seventh-round draft pick, has begun to earn more playing time. He carried the ball 14 times against the Raiders, demonstrating his effectiveness even when the opposing defense anticipated his runs. Meanwhile, Mitchell, who experienced a decline in playing time after a standout 2021 season with the San Francisco 49ers, is also in contention for additional carries. Despite missing all of last year due to a hamstring injury, Reid noted, “A lot of guys wouldn’t even come back from that thing. He battled back.”

The Chiefs may also benefit from the return of standout right guard Trey Smith, who sat out last week’s game due to back spasms. Smith was back on the practice field Wednesday, which could enhance the team’s offensive line as they face the Bills.

As Kansas City gears up for this crucial matchup, the absence of Pacheco raises questions about the team’s ability to maintain their momentum. The Chiefs will need every advantage to secure a victory against a formidable opponent in Buffalo.