Chiefs' Andy Reid provides update on Isiah Pacheco injury

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Jan 2, 2025 10:54 AM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs are entering Week 18 against the Denver Broncos with a host of decisions to make.

The biggest one is which starters take the field in a meaningless game and who is asked to take a seat. But in the case of running back Isiah Pacheco, it might be a clear-cut decision as to whether he suits up or not.

Having suffered a rib injury in the 29-10 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Christmas Day, attention now turns to whether or not Pacheco will be able to play against Denver and maybe even beyond.

But head coach Andy Reid allayed any fears stating that Pacheco will be ready come playoff time.

“He'll be available playoff-wise,” Reid said. “He is tender, and we'll just probably hold him back here this week in practice just a bit so he can be fresh and ready to go."

So will Pacheco play, or will he sit out during Week 18?

Given the nature of the injury and the fact that the Chiefs have nothing to play for, there is little sense in putting your No. 1 running back out on the field when, instead, he could get 25 days of rest before the Chiefs' first playoff game.

So some starters might suit up, but Pacheco, given he will also be held back in practice this week as well, might not take his place, and in truth, it wouldn't be surprising at all.

The Chiefs have positioned themselves well for a Super Bowl tilt and will need all their stars fit and firing come playoff time, including a healthy and refreshed Pacheco.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: