Chiefs Running Back Isiah Pacheco Returns from Injury

The Kansas City Chiefs are welcoming back running back Isiah Pacheco, who has been sidelined since suffering an MCL sprain in his right knee during a match against the Washington Commanders on October 27. Pacheco is expected to return to action this Thanksgiving Day when the Chiefs take on the Dallas Cowboys.

The second-year player has made a significant impact this season, accumulating 372 yards from scrimmage and scoring two touchdowns over eight games. The Chiefs selected the former Rutgers star as a seventh-round pick in the 2022 NFL draft, and he has since established himself as a valuable asset in the team's offense.

In Pacheco's absence, running back Kareem Hunt stepped up as the team's primary option, carrying the ball 30 times for 104 yards and a touchdown in last Sunday’s 23-20 win against the Indianapolis Colts. With Hunt solidifying his role as RB1, the return of Pacheco will add depth to Kansas City’s backfield.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has been cautious with Pacheco's return, opting not to play him in two games within five days shortly before the Cowboys matchup. Pacheco practiced leading up to the Colts game and will benefit from an extended rest period post-Thanksgiving before the Chiefs return to the field on December 7 against the Houston Texans.

Currently sitting at 6-5, the Chiefs are on the verge of playoff contention, trailing behind a trio of wild card teams, including the Los Angeles Chargers, Buffalo Bills, and Jacksonville Jaguars. With Pacheco back in the mix, the Chiefs will look to secure a critical victory against the Cowboys, who are set to host the game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. ET.