Isiah Pacheco's Injury Aftermath Against Browns Still Reverberates in Kansas City

Kansas City, MO – July 9, 2025

The lingering effects of Isiah Pacheco’s injury during the Kansas City Chiefs’ clash with the Cleveland Browns in Week 15 of the 2024 season continue to echo through the team, casting a shadow over their preparations for the upcoming season, sources told ESPN on Wednesday. The running back’s setback has left a mark on Chiefs Kingdom as training camp looms.

Pacheco, a dynamic force in the Chiefs’ backfield, suffered a meniscus tear in his right knee during the December 15, 2024, victory over the Browns, a game that saw Kansas City clinch a 27-17 win. The injury, following a prior fractured fibula from Week 2 against the Cincinnati Bengals, forced him to miss the remainder of the regular season’s endgame. His return for the playoffs was lackluster, averaging just 3.4 yards per carry across five games, a stark contrast to his pre-injury 4.9 yards per carry in 2022 and 4.6 in 2023.

Head coach Andy Reid has acknowledged the impact, noting, “Isiah’s been working hard, but that knee injury took a toll.” Despite his activation from injured reserve in late November and participation in OTAs with limited reps, Pacheco’s full recovery remains uncertain. The Chiefs’ reliance on Kareem Hunt, who stepped up with 151 yards in the same span, highlighted the vulnerability exposed by Pacheco’s absence.

The aftermath has spurred roster adjustments. GM Brett Veach bolstered the running back depth by re-signing Hunt and adding Elijah Mitchell, while drafting Brashard Smith in the seventh round of 2025. Yet, the offensive line’s struggle to protect a hobbled Pacheco—allowing increased pressures in 2024—has raised questions about long-term strategy. With $11.2 million in cap space, the team faces decisions on whether to invest further or lean on youth.

Fans on social platforms express a mix of concern and hope, with sentiments like “Pacheco needs time” and “Hope he’s back to form!” The 40-22 Super Bowl LIX loss to the Eagles, where Pacheco managed just 12 scrimmage yards, underscores the injury’s ripple effect. As training camp nears on July 22, the question lingers: Can Pacheco reclaim his explosive edge, or will his injury’s shadow alter Kansas City’s Super Bowl LX plans? Stay tuned to ESPN for updates.