Isiah Pacheco Sees ‘Phenomenal’ Potential in Chiefs’ Running Back Room: Could KC Shift to a More Balanced Offense in 2025?
Kansas City, MO — As training camp heats up in Missouri, all eyes are on the Kansas City Chiefs’ high-octane offense. But this year, it’s not just Patrick Mahomes or a deep-ball wideout making headlines. According to star running back Isiah Pacheco, the spotlight may soon turn toward a loaded, retooled backfield — one he believes could quietly become the Chiefs’ X-factor in their 2025 Super Bowl push.
“This room is phenomenal. Honestly, it might be the most complete group I’ve been around,” said Pacheco, speaking after a physical practice session this week. “From top to bottom — we’re ready to dominate.”
Depth, Youth, and Versatility: The Ingredients of a Dangerous RB Unit
Kansas City’s running back rotation for 2025 is shaping up to be the deepest in the Mahomes era. The group features:
- Isiah Pacheco, the violent runner and emotional leader, entering his third season as RB1.
- Clyde Edwards-Helaire, the former first-round pick playing with a chip on his shoulder in what may be a contract year.
- Deneric Prince, an undrafted gem from Tulsa, who flashed power and patience late last season.
- Keilan Robinson, a rookie speedster out of Texas, with returner potential and elite open-field acceleration.
Add in role players like La’Mical Perine and special teams contributor Jerrion Ealy, and suddenly the RB room feels crowded — but highly competitive.
“There’s no let-up with these guys,” Pacheco continued. “Everyone’s got something different: some have vision, some have burst, some block like fullbacks. We’re pushing each other every rep.”
A Philosophical Shift for Andy Reid?
For head coach Andy Reid, known for his pass-first playbooks and vertical schemes, relying more on the ground game may seem like a departure. But given the evolving nature of the Chiefs’ offense — and uncertainty around WR depth post-Tyreek Hill and amid Rashee Rice’s legal troubles — this might be the perfect time for Reid to lean into a more balanced attack.
“We’re not changing who we are,” offensive coordinator Matt Nagy told reporters. “But when you’ve got a room like this? You feed it. You find ways to make defenses respect it.”
So far in camp, the Chiefs have been experimenting with two-RB sets, expanded screen packages, and motion-heavy runs out of shotgun. Analysts believe the versatility of Pacheco, Robinson, and Edwards-Helaire could allow Kansas City to keep defenses off balance and control tempo more effectively — especially in December and January.
Isiah Pacheco: More Than Just a Lead Back
While the 2025 season marks only his third in the NFL, Isiah Pacheco is already seen as a locker-room leader. Known for his relentless work ethic and aggressive running style, the former 7th-round pick out of Rutgers has become a fan favorite — and the emotional heartbeat of the offense outside of Mahomes and Kelce.
“He brings energy every day,” said quarterback Patrick Mahomes. “But he also brings leadership. He wants the room to grow, not just himself.”
Pacheco isn’t threatened by the depth behind him. Instead, he sees it as an advantage.
“We’re not just here to take carries — we’re here to break games open. All of us. It’s not about who starts, it’s about what we do when our number’s called.”
Eyes on Another Lombardi
For Kansas City, the mission hasn’t changed: Win now. Win big. Win again. But with other AFC powers strengthening their defenses, the need to diversify and dominate on the ground has never been greater.
“When it’s snowing in January at Arrowhead, you better be able to run the ball,” said Pacheco with a grin. “And I promise — this group can.”
If the hype surrounding the Chiefs’ backfield proves to be more than just offseason optimism, Isiah Pacheco and his “phenomenal” running back crew may just be the key to unlocking Kansas City’s next Super Bowl run.
