The Detroit Lions have agreed to sign running back Isiah Pacheco, according to NFL insider Tom Pelissero. Pacheco is expected to take over the role of the No. 2 running back, filling the vacancy left when veteran David Montgomery was traded to the Houston Texans.
Player Background and Career Overview
At 27 years old, Pacheco was a three-year starter at Rutgers University and earned an honorable mention as an All-Big Ten selection during his senior season. The Kansas City Chiefs drafted him in the seventh round with the 251st overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Completing his four-year rookie contract valued at $3,739,108, which included a $79,108 signing bonus, Pacheco contributed notably during his time with Kansas City. In the 2023 season, he appeared in 13 games, rushing 118 times for 462 yards, averaging 3.9 yards per carry, and scoring one rushing touchdown. Additionally, he caught 19 passes for 101 yards and one receiving touchdown.
Implications of the Signing for the Lions
Pacheco’s arrival is seen as an important step for the Lions’ offense as they look to maintain depth and versatility at the running back position. His blend of rushing and receiving skills could provide new dimensions to Detroit’s backfield strategy moving forward, especially after Montgomery’s departure.
Source: The Lions are signing RB Isiah Pacheco. pic.twitter.com/TpWUD5fiBj
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 10, 2026
