After leaving Arrowhead Stadium on crutches and in a walking boot, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco suffered a fractured fibula and will be placed on injured reserve.
The injury isn’t considered season-ending but Pacheco is expected to miss an extended period of time.
The injury occurred on the Chiefs’ game-winning drive of Sunday’s 25-23 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. Pacheco ran for 90 yards on 19 carries while also catching five passes for 21 yards before leaving the game.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco suffered a fractured fibula during Sunday’s 26-25 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, which will force him to miss significant time.
How much time? Rapoport’s initial report didn’t say. But ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that he will be out for at least four weeks.
At the moment, the team happens to have an open spot on the 53-man roster after it placed wide receiver Hollywood Brown on its Reserve/Injured list on Friday.
On Monday afternoon, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler revealed a timeline for Pacheco.
Given the timeline, it’s fair to expect Pacheco to join Brown on the Reserve/Injured list.
The Chiefs made a shrewd move when they signed Carson Steele following the NFL Draft, as his training camp and preseason performances made him undeniable for the 53-man roster.
Though Kansas City officially lists Steele as a fullback, head coach Andy Reid has consistently raved about his ability as a runner, and there were glimpses of that in the Chiefs’ win over the Bengals.
Both Keaontay Ingram and Emani Bailey are ready for the call on the practice squad, and Ingram would likely be the first call-up should general manager Brett Veach want to add him to the room internally. In addition, former Chiefs running back Jerick McKinnon is currently a free agent. Clyde Edwards-Helaire remains on the Reserve/NFI (non-football injury list), so he will not be available for two more weeks.
Should the Chiefs not add a player from outside the building, it is reasonable to expect Steele to be Kansas City’s choice to replace Pacheco on early downs, with newcomer Samaje Perine working in as the third-down, pass-catching back.
