Chiefs Win Big — But Isiah Pacheco’s Knee Injury Casts a Shadow Over Victory Against Commanders

Chiefs Win Big — But Isiah Pacheco’s Knee Injury Casts a Shadow Over Victory Against Commanders

The Kansas City Chiefs walked away with a 28–7 win over the Washington Commanders on Sunday — but the celebration didn’t last long. After a sloppy first half, Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs found their rhythm to dominate late, only for star running back Isiah Pacheco to limp off the field in the fourth quarter with what’s now confirmed to be an MCL sprain.

According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Media (via Pro Football Talk’s Myles Simmons), Pacheco’s injury is being evaluated on a week-to-week basis. The 25-year-old had been enjoying one of his best games of the season before going down, recording 58 rushing yards on 12 carries — a performance that underscored just how crucial he’s been to Kansas City’s offensive balance.

The injury, described as a medial collateral ligament (MCL) sprain, came after a violent hit to Pacheco’s leg. It’s another frustrating setback for the third-year back, who already overcame a major offseason surgery to repair a fractured leg. Pacheco fought his way back to full speed, bringing energy and toughness that defined the Chiefs’ running game — until this new blow.

So what’s next for Kansas City? The Chiefs’ rushing attack, already thin behind Mahomes, will now lean heavily on Kareem Hunt and Clyde Edwards-Helaire. Hunt, who turned back the clock with two touchdowns in the win, could shoulder more work — though head coach Andy Reid reportedly wants to manage his load carefully. Behind them, rookie Brashard Smith and depth back Elijah Mitchell might see increased snaps in coming weeks.

Reid, speaking postgame, said, “You hate to see that happen to a guy like Isiah — he’s worked so hard to be where he is. We’re hoping it’s nothing too serious and that we’ll get him back soon.” Several teammates echoed that sentiment, with Mahomes calling Pacheco “the heart and energy of our offense.”

Still, with the trade deadline approaching, whispers around the league suggest Kansas City could explore adding another back — and Alvin Kamara’s name from New Orleans has already surfaced as a possible fit. For now, the Chiefs’ victory feels bittersweet — a reminder that even in dominant wins, the NFL can turn on one bad step.