The Detroit Lions have added former Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco to complement Jahmyr Gibbs in their backfield this offseason. The agreement was reached following the trade of David Montgomery to the Houston Texans, marking a strategic move to strengthen the Lions’ running game.
Isiah Pacheco Joins Detroit Following Montgomery Trade
Pacheco, who was selected by the Chiefs in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft, has already achieved notable success by winning two Super Bowls with Kansas City. Over his NFL career, he has accumulated 2,537 rushing yards and scored 14 rushing touchdowns, while also proving himself as a receiving threat with 88 catches. The Lions secured Pacheco after the Chiefs shifted focus to Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker during free agency, making Pacheco available.
David Montgomery, who spent three seasons with Detroit, was traded to the Texans in exchange for two draft picks and offensive lineman Juice Scruggs. This trade opened the door for Pacheco to take a prominent role in Detroit’s offense.
Offensive Line Enhancements with Mays and Borom Signings
The Lions have also restructured their offensive line to provide better protection and run blocking. Drew Petzing, the team’s new offensive coordinator, has emphasized building strength up front. Detroit signed center Cade Mays to a three-year contract reportedly worth $25 million, including $14 million guaranteed, and added Larry Borom on a one-year deal valued at $2.5 million. These additions aim to fill the vacancies created by the departures of longtime starters Taylor Decker and Graham Glasgow.
Decker had been a fixture on the Lions’ offensive line for a decade, starting 140 games, while Glasgow contributed in 110 appearances, with over 100 starts during his two stints with Detroit. The leadership voids they left will require new players like Mays and Borom to step up.
Returning Offensive Leaders Set to Propel the Team
Despite roster changes, Detroit retains key offensive talent including quarterback Jared Goff, now entering his sixth season with the Lions, and wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs and tight end Sam LaPorta also return to contribute significantly. Veteran offensive tackle Penei Sewell is expected to adjust his position and move from right to left tackle to solidify the line after Decker’s exit.
The combination of Pacheco’s power running, the emergence of promising offensive linemen, and a group of proven skill players positions Detroit to enhance its offensive capabilities in the coming season.
