Following a remarkable college football journey with the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, Isiah Pacheco transitioned to the NFL since being drafted in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. The running back is now on the verge of pursuing another Super Bowl title as the Chiefs secure their spot in the NFL Conference Championship game.
Although his appearance in the upcoming game against the Raven was questionable, it seems there is hope for fans regarding the availability of the running back.
Will Isiah Pacheco play vs Ravens?
Isiah Pacheco is expected to take the field in Sunday’s AFC Championship Game against the Baltimore Ravens, despite carrying a questionable tag for an ankle injury.
NFL Insider James Palmer revealed that Pacheco, dealing with ankle and toe injuries, strategically limited his practice until Friday as part of the game plan for the week.
Being on the injury report all week with both toe and ankle problems, Isiah Pacheco’s official designation as questionable adds uncertainty about his involvement in the critical matchup against the Ravens.
Despite sitting out practice on Wednesday and Thursday, his limited participation on Friday suggests a positive turn in his readiness for the upcoming game.
Injuries are not uncommon for the running back, as he missed a couple of games this season. Among them, he missed the Week 14 game against the Buffalo Bills due to a shoulder contusion suffered in a recent matchup against the Green Bay Packers.
The decision to have the running back play is significant, considering the formidable challenge posed by the Ravens, who boast the league’s top-ranked scoring unit and rank sixth in passing defense.
Pacheco’s role has been instrumental in the Chiefs’ journey to the AFC Championship Game, and his active presence on the field will provide Kansas City with a strategic advantage in exploiting the Ravens’ defensive vulnerabilities.
Isiah Pacheco’s performance this NFL season
Isiah Pacheco has proven to be a crucial asset for the Kansas City Chiefs throughout the NFL playoffs, showcasing his on-field prowess with standout performances. In both the wild-card and divisional rounds, Pacheco played a pivotal role by scoring crucial touchdowns that propelled his team to victory. He found the end zone in both games, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
Against the Dolphins, he carried the ball 24 times, demonstrating his durability and effectiveness in driving the Chiefs’ offense forward. Similarly, in the divisional round clash against the Bills, Pacheco, who digested hefty fines from the NFL, recorded 97 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries.
During the regular season, he was a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offense, leading the team in total touches and making significant contributions both as a rusher and receiver. Isiah Pacheco amassed 935 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, along with 244 receiving yards and two scores on 44 catches across 14 games.
Despite carrying a questionable injury tag, Pacheco is expected to shoulder another heavy workload against the Ravens, provided he is cleared to play.
The Chiefs and Ravens are scheduled to kick off in Baltimore at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, with Pacheco’s official status expected to be confirmed closer to kickoff.
