David Chao, MD
2 min read • September 16, 2024
Posted in
In a tough blow for the Kansas City Chiefs, running back Isiah Pacheco suffered a fractured fibula during their narrow 26-25 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 2. Pacheco, who has been a key offensive piece for the team, was seen leaving Arrowhead Stadium on crutches with his right foot in a walking boot. Initial reports suggested an ankle injury, but further evaluation revealed the fibula fracture.
The fibula is the outer bone of the lower leg, connecting to the ankle, which is why the injury was initially reported as an ankle issue. Fortunately for Pacheco, it appears that the fracture is not displaced, meaning the bone has remained in proper alignment. While surgery is not always necessary for this type of injury, it could be considered in Pacheco's case to expedite recovery time.
Typically, fibula fractures require more than just the standard four-game Injured Reserve (IR) stint, which means Pacheco may be out for an extended period. However, Chiefs fans can take solace in the fact that he is expected to return later this season.
At just 25 years old, Pacheco has been a vital part of the Chiefs’ offense, leading the team in rushing for the past two seasons. In Week 2 alone, he rushed for 90 yards on 19 carries and caught five passes for 21 yards. Through the first two games of the 2024 season, he has racked up 135 rushing yards, a touchdown, and is averaging 4.0 yards per carry.
With Pacheco sidelined, the Chiefs will need to rely on their depth at running back. However, their options are somewhat limited. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, their leading rusher from 2020, is on the non-football injury list and won’t be eligible to return until Week 5 against the New Orleans Saints at the earliest. This leaves the Chiefs with backups rookie Carson Steele and Samaje Perine to fill the void in the meantime. The Chiefs also signed Kareem Hunt but will not elevate him to the active roster for their Sunday Night game vs. the Falcons.
Fibula fractures, particularly those that are non-displaced, have a favorable recovery outlook. Depending on whether surgery is performed, the timeline for return can vary, but it's likely that Pacheco will be out longer than the minimum four weeks required for players placed on IR. Despite the injury, fans should remain optimistic that Pacheco will make a strong comeback and rejoin the Chiefs later in the season as they push for another playoff run.
For now, the Chiefs will have to find ways to adapt without their star running back. While Pacheco’s absence will be felt, Kansas City has proven resilient in overcoming challenges, and they’ll need to do so again to maintain their position as one of the AFC’s top teams.
This injury could have a significant impact on fantasy football owners who rely on Pacheco’s consistent performance. Be sure to check back on SICscore.com for updates on his recovery and return timeline.
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Written by David Chao, MD
