Isiah Pacheco Ruled Out for Week 11, Kareem Hunt to Lead Chiefs Backfield

Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco (knee) has been officially ruled out for Sunday's Week 11 game against the Broncos. He is the only Chiefs player with an injury designation this weekend, having not practiced all week (Nov 12-14). Pacheco, who signed a four-year, $3.74 million contract in May 2022, missed most of the 2024 season with a broken fibula, returning in Week 13 but averaging only 3.4 YPC in a rotational role. By June 2025, he had regained muscle and was expected to contend for the lead-back role. His absence means Kareem Hunt is poised to lead the backfield, as Hunt handled 11 of 16 RB carries and two targets on an 81% snap rate in the Week 9 loss to Buffalo. Pacheco's 4.37 speed and violent running style make him a unique fit for the Chiefs' offense, though his durability has been a concern.