Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for a high-stakes Week 9 showdown against the Buffalo Bills — a clash that could shape the AFC playoff picture. However, the reigning Super Bowl champions will likely be without one of their most explosive offensive weapons, running back Isiah Pacheco, as he battles a lingering knee injury.
Andy Reid confirms Pacheco’s likely absence
Head coach Andy Reid addressed the media on Friday afternoon, offering an important update on his starting halfback. According to Reid, the 26-year-old running back is not expected to suit up for Sunday’s matchup.
“Yeah, there’s a good chance he’s listed as out,” Reid said. “Breaking news — you can get it first (laughs).”
While right guard Trey Smith, who’s been dealing with a back issue, is expected to play, Isiah Pacheco’s absence could alter Kansas City’s offensive rhythm. The Rutgers product has been a critical part of the Chiefs’ ground game this season, bringing energy, power, and balance to an offense often centered around Patrick Mahomes’ aerial dominance.
Injury timeline and practice struggles
The update comes after a week of uncertainty. Pacheco was a non-participant in every practice session leading up to the Bills game, signaling that his recovery from an MCL sprain hasn’t progressed enough to take the field. Andy Reid’s track record suggests that if a player doesn’t log any practice time by Friday, he’s unlikely to play on Sunday.
Pacheco sustained the injury during Kansas City’s Week 8 win over the Washington Commanders, when he logged 12 carries for 58 yards before exiting in the fourth quarter. The injury was later confirmed as an MCL sprain, and earlier reports labeled him “week-to-week.”
Despite the setback, Reid emphasized that the injury shouldn’t sideline Isiah Pacheco for an extended period. “I don’t think so,” Reid said. “We’ll just see how he is moving around. Tough kid, [and] there was a point there where he wanted to go back in and I wouldn’t let him. But that’s how he’s wired; you’d have to cut his leg off to stop him (chuckles).”
Chiefs look to adjust without their lead rusher
Pacheco, who has recorded 78 carries for 329 yards this season, has been a consistent spark in Kansas City’s backfield. His combination of speed and physicality has often set the tone for the Chiefs’ offensive tempo, helping the team diversify beyond its passing-heavy approach.
Without Pacheco, the Chiefs may turn to veteran Jerick McKinnon and Clyde Edwards-Helaire to shoulder the rushing duties. Both have experience in Andy Reid’s system, but neither replicates Pacheco’s downhill power or relentless drive.
Impact on the Bills matchup
Facing the Buffalo Bills, one of the league’s toughest defenses, the Chiefs’ offense will need to rely heavily on Mahomes’ efficiency and the creativity of Reid’s play-calling. Isiah Pacheco’s absence could place more pressure on Kansas City’s passing game, especially in short-yardage and red-zone scenarios where the young back has been most effective.