JUST NOW: Isiah Pacheco’s Post-Injury Productivity is a Problem for the Chiefs’ Ground Game
In a season marked by rising expectations, the Kansas City Chiefs find themselves facing an unexpected issue—Isiah Pacheco’s post-injury performance. After being a key part of the Chiefs’ offense during their Super Bowl-winning campaign last season, Pacheco’s struggles to find consistency following a recent injury are now raising concerns for the team’s ground game as they move into the second half of the season.
Pacheco, who was instrumental in Kansas City’s rushing attack last season with his explosive runs and aggressive style, is no longer carrying the same momentum after suffering a significant injury midseason. The setback, which kept him sidelined for a brief period, has seemingly hampered his ability to regain the same rhythm that made him a breakout star last year. His performance in the latter part of the season has raised alarms for Chiefs’ coaches and fans alike.
The Drop in Production
Pacheco’s numbers are undeniably down. In the games since his return, the Chiefs’ rushing attack has become increasingly ineffective. His yards per carry have dipped, and while he still shows flashes of his former self, those moments have been fleeting. In his most recent outings, Pacheco has struggled to break free for long runs, and his lack of consistency in picking up yards on early downs has put more pressure on quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the passing game.
Kansas City’s ground game is becoming a growing concern for head coach Andy Reid, who has long relied on a balanced offensive approach to keep defenses guessing. Without a steady rushing attack, the Chiefs’ offense has become more predictable, leaning heavily on Mahomes’ arm to keep them in games.
While the Chiefs have always leaned on their high-powered passing game, the team’s recent troubles running the football have shown that they can’t afford to become one-dimensional—especially against tougher defenses in the playoffs.
Compounding Problems for the Chiefs
The lack of a consistent rushing attack isn’t just about Pacheco. The entire ground game has struggled in 2024, with backup running backs Jerick McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire failing to provide adequate support when called upon. The Chiefs’ offensive line, once considered one of the league’s strongest, has also shown signs of wear, struggling to open up holes for their backs and protect Mahomes from pressure.
Pacheco’s post-injury drop-off also raises questions about his ability to carry the workload in high-stress situations. With the playoffs looming, the Chiefs will need more from their running back. If Pacheco is unable to regain his pre-injury form, Kansas City may be forced to adjust their strategy and lean even more on Mahomes, which could backfire in big moments.
Potential Solutions
One possible solution the Chiefs might explore is utilizing a committee approach, where Pacheco remains the starter but other running backs, such as McKinnon or Edwards-Helaire, are given more opportunities to contribute. This could help lighten the load on Pacheco’s shoulders and keep defenses guessing.
Another option is to look for additional depth on the market or trade deadline, especially if the team believes Pacheco’s injury has made him less reliable as a feature back. Given the importance of a balanced offensive attack in postseason play, the Chiefs will have to consider all avenues to ensure they’re not too reliant on Mahomes’ arm in the weeks to come.
Looking Ahead
With a playoff berth still within reach, the Chiefs cannot afford to let their ground game become a liability. If Pacheco can rediscover his explosive running style, it would take a significant amount of pressure off Mahomes and help return the offense to its full potential. However, the clock is ticking, and Kansas City’s coaching staff will need to make adjustments quickly if they want to prevent this issue from derailing their season.
For now, all eyes will be on Pacheco in the coming weeks as he attempts to overcome his injury struggles and regain his place as the centerpiece of the Chiefs’ ground attack. The team’s Super Bowl aspirations may depend on it.
