Running back Isiah Pacheco had a chance to work with head coach Andy Reid once again. But he chose a different path away from the Kansas City Chiefs as he moves to the Detroit Lions.

During a press conference last week, Isaiah Pacheco gave Lions reporters insight into what went into the Chiefs' offer to re-sign him, which he eventually refused.

“There were a lot of teams. I had eight opportunities to go to different teams. Kansas City was one of them. Once they made that move (signed Kenneth Walker III), I knew that I had to open up the door to go somewhere else.”

Young running back Isiah Pacheco was drafted by the Chiefs in 2022 at the starter position. At the time, Isiah Pacheco signed a four-year rookie contract worth $3.7 million with the Chiefs.

In the legal tampering window for the 2026 offseason, he signed a contract worth $1.81 million with the Lions. Further details of the contract have yet to be disclosed.

By his own admission, Pacheco knew that Walker's move to the Chiefs would mean he would have to play second fiddle to an established starter. So, when the opportunity came knocking from the Lions, he took it.

Pacheco said, “They were the first team I thought of. I was screaming on the phone. Let's f*****g go. I'm ready to go. Put me in."

Pacheco played in 51 matches and covered 2537 rushing yards with 576 attempts and scored 14 touchdowns. His numbers are sure to impact the Lions' backfield as they go into the 2026 season.

What Does Isiah Pacheco Bring to the Detroit Lions?

The Kansas City Chiefs valued his ability to play within a structure. He protected the ball, managed volume carries, and maintained his effectiveness under high-pressure. 

Because of his understanding of blocking schemes and situational awareness, Pacheco was a reliable component of the Chief's system.

There is a reason the Chiefs wanted him back. Head coach Andy Reid has often lauded Pacheco for his energy.

"I know he was excited to be there, but he's always -- I know he's excited but he's always high-octane. I mean he's high-octane in practice all the time."

With the Detroit Lions, he can complement Jahmyr Gibbs by adding power to speed. Pacheco even touched upon it in the press conference.

“They could call me Taz… I’m going to spin, jump… to accommodate Jahmyr.”

That pairing calls back to his “Sonic and Knuckles” dynamic that Gibbs had with David Montgomery. It looks like Pacheco wants to rekindle that onscreen relationship.

What do you think Pacheco must have chosen: a guaranteed role or team loyalty? Share your views in the comments.

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Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Sayantan Gayen