The Kansas City Chiefs continued their strong start to the NFL season on Sunday, though it came at a cost, as starting running back Isiah Pacheco is set to miss a sizeable chunk of the season after picking up an injury.
The Chiefs improved to 2-0 after defeating the Cincinnati Bengals 26-25 thanks to a last second field goal from Harrison Butker.
Unfortunately for KC and coach Andy Reid, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapport reports that initial tests showed that Pacheco fractured his fibula in the game.
The running back is set to undergo more tests to determine the extent of the damage, like whether there are ligament issues, meaning KC will have to wait before assessing how much time he will miss.
Nevertheless, the expectation is that Pacheco will be played on injured reserve and miss quite a bit of time. The typical recovery time for a fractured fibula is four to eight weeks, meaning the Chiefs will likely be without Pacheco for at least a month.
When did Pacheco pick up the injury
Pacheco left Sunday’s game in the fourth quarter, and was later spotted leaving Arrowhead Stadium in a walking boot and crutches.
He finished the game with 90 yards on 19 rushes, along with 21 yards on five catches.
The news is all the more disappointing for the Chiefs given they are expected to without receiver Hollywood Brown for the entire regular season, while Clyde Edwards-Helaire is also on the reserve/non-football illness list.
When it comes to replacing Pacheco, Andy Reid could give a bigger role to Samaja Perine, who was signed and has played a pass-catching role so far.
Undrafted rookie Carson Steele saw an increased role in the closing stages of Sunday’s game, while KC may also consider bringing back Jerick McKinnon, who is currently a free agent.