Ex-Chiefs RB Pacheco Joins Detroit Lions

Isiah Pacheco is reportedly leaving the Kansas City Chiefs, his team for the past four seasons, to sign with the Detroit Lions in free agency. This move follows two Super Bowl championships with the Chiefs.

The Lions' acquisition of Pacheco is part of a larger backfield reshuffling. They previously traded David Montgomery to the Houston Texans in exchange for offensive lineman Juice Scruggs and draft picks.

Pacheco joins a Lions team that retains Jahmyr Gibbs, who had a strong 2025 season with 1,223 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. Pacheco could serve as a complementary back to Gibbs, provided he can remain healthy after missing games last season due to an MCL sprain.

Despite a career-low 9.1 carries per game last season, Pacheco accumulated 462 rushing yards and a touchdown on 118 attempts. His production has been limited by injuries over the past two seasons, with his highest yardage total being just under 1,000 yards in 14 games in 2023.

During his time with the Chiefs, Pacheco played a crucial role in their back-to-back Super Bowl wins, leading the postseason with 313 rushing yards in their most recent championship run after the 2023 season.

The Lions will look for Pacheco to rebound in 2026, hoping a healthier season and a partnership with Gibbs will boost his performance. The Chiefs, in turn, are preparing for the arrival of Kenneth Walker III on a three-year deal and the return of offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, aiming to improve their rushing offense.