The Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for their Week 18 matchup against the Denver Broncos, but they’ll be doing so without one of their offensive stars, running back Isiah Pacheco. After sustaining a rib injury late in their Week 17 game on Christmas Day, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has confirmed that Pacheco will sit out of practice this week. The good news for Chiefs fans is that Pacheco is expected to be fully ready for the playoffs.
Pacheco’s Recovery Plan
- Current Status: Pacheco will not participate in practice this week to allow his ribs to heal.
- Playoff Availability: Reid reassured reporters that the running back will be available for the postseason, emphasizing the importance of giving him time to recover.
- Coach’s Statement: “He is tender… I’ll probably hold him back here this week in practice just a bit so he can be fresh and ready to go,” Reid said on Monday.
Injury History and Importance
Pacheco has already endured a challenging season, having dealt with a broken leg earlier that landed him on injured reserve. Despite these setbacks, his return for the playoffs is critical, as he is a cornerstone of Kansas City’s postseason success.
Pacheco’s Playoff Legacy
- Experience: Seven career playoff starts, including two Super Bowls.
- Production:
- 118 carries for 510 rushing yards and four touchdowns.
- 18 receptions on 19 targets for 125 yards.
- Role in the Offense: Pacheco’s physical, hard-nosed running style energizes the Chiefs’ offense, making him a vital component in both moving the chains and wearing down opposing defenses.
What It Means for Week 18
With the Chiefs having already locked up the AFC’s No. 1 seed, Reid’s decision to rest Pacheco underscores the team’s focus on the playoffs. Other key players may also see limited or no action against the Broncos, as Kansas City prioritizes health and readiness for their postseason run.
Looking Ahead
As Pacheco continues to recover, the Chiefs’ coaching staff will likely turn to their running back depth for Week 18. While it’s a loss for the immediate matchup, ensuring Pacheco’s availability for the playoffs will bolster Kansas City’s offense as they aim for another Super Bowl run. His physical presence and postseason experience could prove invaluable in the Chiefs’ pursuit of another championship.
