The Kansas City Chiefs fell just short in their attempt for a historic three Super Bowl victories in a row. In the big game, the offense failed to produce, and the defense couldn’t keep them in the game. Luckily, the Chiefs still have a prime Patrick Mahomes to lead their offense for years to come.
However, their run game faced challenges in the 2024 season, ranking No. 22 in the NFL in average rushing yards per game and 29th in rushing yards per attempt. It was partly because Isiah Pacheco could only start seven games due to injuries.
However, he has only played in 30 of the 54 games in the last three seasons, and Kansas City is reportedly hesitant to extend his contract.
Chiefs Reportedly Hesitant To Extend Isiah Pacheco
Tony Pauline of Sportskeeda claimed that the Chiefs are unlikely to give Pacheco a new contract until the season starts and he returns to his top form.
“The Kansas City Chiefs are moving towards salary-cap hell and have some hard choices to make … An extension for running back Isiah Pacheco, who is in the final year of his rookie deal, won’t be considered until the season starts and the former seventh-round pick proves he’s back to health and prior form.”
Pacheco was the starting running back before suffering a fractured fibula in Week 2. He was placed on injured reserve in September before returning in Week 13. He finished the regular season with 310 rushing yards and one touchdown on 83 carries.
The Chiefs picked Pacheco in the seventh round at the 2022 NFL Draft and have seen him battle multiple injuries, including a torn labrum, a broken hand, a fractured fibula, rib injuries, and concussions. While he’s been impressive when healthy, rushing for 2,075 yards and 13 touchdowns, missing nearly half of the games is a big concern.
There have been discussions about potentially bringing back Kareem Hunt, who is set to enter free agency. When Pacheco went down with an injury, the Chiefs turned to Hunt, who led the team in carries, yards, and rushing touchdowns in only eight starts. Spotrac estimates Hunt’s free agency market value is $2.6 million.
However, if Hunt and the Chiefs can’t come to terms on a new contract, Pacheco will be tasked with ensuring the team’s running game is fierce enough to compete in the AFC. He is currently playing under his four-year, $3.73 million rookie contract, and would be eager to start his season strong enough to start the negotiations on a contract extension.