Why isn’t Isiah Pacheco playing for the Chiefs against the Patriots?

Some Kansas City Chiefs fans have been left pondering the absence of their dynamic running back, Isiah Pacheco, for the trip to New England on Sunday. In the words of his coach Andy Reid the recent shoulder surgery that has had him sidelined is a “cleanup procedure,” one that was performed on the same shoulder Pacheco had surgery on during the offseason.

Pachecho missing for Chiefs - Patriots

Pacheco has been an important figure in the Chiefs’ offense, ranked fifth in the NFL in rushing with an impressive tally of 779 yards before his injury. His absence was notably felt in last week’s game against the Buffalo Bills, where the Chiefs suffered a frustrating loss.

The Chiefs’ walk-through practices this week included Pacheco, indicating his recovery is still very much on track. Reid expressed optimism about Pacheco returning to full practice by next week, offering some hope to fans and the team. However, his absence in Sunday’s game against the New England Patriots is a blow to the Chiefs’ offensive strategy.

Who plays instead of Pacheco?

In the wake of Pacheco’s absence, the Chiefs have had to rely on Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon. While both have shown commendable effort, with McKinnon scoring a touchdown and Edwards-Helaire contributing both in rushing and receiving, they haven’t quite filled the void left by Pacheco. Reid acknowledged their efforts, emphasizing that each player brings their own unique energy to the game.