Is Isiah Pacheco Playing Today? Injury Update Explained for Week 12

Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco will not play today against the Indianapolis Colts. The Chiefs ruled him out for Week 12 as he continues to work back from a knee injury. This update answers the key question fans have asked all week: Is Isiah Pacheco playing today?

Pacheco practiced early in the week but was later downgraded. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirmed that Pacheco did not suffer a setback. The team decided to hold him out as a precaution as he works toward a full return.

Latest Injury Status and Team Decisions on Isiah Pacheco

Pacheco last played on Oct. 27. He has dealt with a knee issue that has slowed his availability for several weeks. Kansas City hoped he could return after limited practice work, but the medical staff determined he was not ready for game action. This confirms that fans asking “Is Isiah Pacheco playing today?” now have a clear and official answer.

Pacheco has recorded 78 carries for 329 rushing yards this season. He has averaged 4.2 yards per carry with one rushing touchdown. He also has 11 receptions for 43 yards and one receiving score. His absence leaves Kansas City without one of its most consistent offensive pieces. Reports from trusted outlets such as AP and Reuters have noted the team’s cautious approach with injured starters this season.

With Pacheco unavailable, veteran Kareem Hunt will continue to lead the backfield. He has taken a heavy workload during Pacheco’s absence. Hunt played over 78 percent of the snaps in Week 9 and over 80 percent in Week 11. Rookie Brashard Smith is expected to serve as a complementary option. The Chiefs have relied on Hunt’s experience and physical running style to stabilize the offense during Pacheco’s recovery.

Kansas City enters this matchup attempting to climb back above the .500 mark. The team has leaned on its depth throughout the season. Losing Pacheco again is a challenge, but the running back group has prepared for expanded roles. Analysts from major outlets including BBC News and AP have stressed the importance of managing injuries for long-term team performance.

How Pacheco’s Absence Shapes the Chiefs Moving Forward

Pacheco’s ongoing recovery shapes Kansas City’s offensive rhythm. Without him, the Chiefs must rely more heavily on committee rushing and short passing to maintain balance. Hunt brings strong red zone value and veteran awareness. Smith adds speed and versatility. Together they provide stability until Pacheco returns.

The broader outlook suggests that Kansas City is prioritizing health over short-term risk. Pacheco is one of the team’s most energetic runners. Protecting him now ensures he can contribute later in the season when games matter most. The Chiefs coaching staff has praised Pacheco’s toughness and expects him to be closer to full strength soon.

In summary, Isiah Pacheco is not playing today. The Chiefs will rely on Kareem Hunt and Brashard Smith in Week 12. Kansas City remains confident that Pacheco is trending in the right direction for future matchups.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Isiah Pacheco playing today?

No. Pacheco is out for Week 12 due to a knee injury. The Chiefs ruled him out before Sunday’s game.

Q2: What is the latest Isiah Pacheco injury update?

He practiced early in the week but was later downgraded. Andy Reid said there was no setback and the team is being cautious.

Q3: Who is starting at running back for the Chiefs today?

Kareem Hunt will lead the backfield. Rookie Brashard Smith will also see carries.

Q4: When could Isiah Pacheco return?

The Chiefs have not provided a specific timetable. His progress in practice suggests that a return is possible soon.

Q5: How has Isiah Pacheco performed this season?

He has 329 rushing yards, 43 receiving yards, and two total touchdowns through his last appearance on Oct. 27.