Which 2022 draft picks could the Chiefs release?
By Jacob Milham
Running back Isiah Pacheco
Much like Johnson, running back Isiah Pacheco has the tools and the tape to be in Kansas City. But, the Chiefs’ offseason additions only make Pacheco making the roster more difficult.
The former Rutgers Scarlett Knight seemed like a roster lock after the draft, despite being drafted 251st overall. Fans quickly became fans of Pacheco, because of his highlights and eye-popping build. At 5’11” and weighing 215 pounds, Pacheco ran a 4.37 40-yard dash at the 2022 NFL Combine, tying for the fastest time in his positional group. After losing wide receiver Tyreek Hill’s game-changing speed this offseason, fans welcomed Pacheco bringing his own speed to Kansas City.
When Kansas City drafted Pacheco, he had a simple path to the 53-man roster. His main competition was veteran Derrick Gore, and that is not an extremely high bar. Pacheco is more versatile than Gore, as well as younger and cheaper. But, the Chiefs further complicated Pacheco’s roster path with two additions.
Kansas City brought back veteran Jerick McKinnon on a one-year, veteran minimum deal, to much rejoicing amongst fans. McKinnon was very productive I’m limited opportunities in 2021, both during the regular season and postseason. The speedster is nearing the end of his career but could end it in Kansas City. Another roadblock is Ealy, who could eat into a running back spot while serving as a flex player. Both could impact Pacheco’s opportunities, both during the preseason and regular season. Despite that, Pacheco started off training camp with a positive attitude.
#Chiefs Isiah Pacheco: “Whenever coach calls my number I’ll be prepared.” pic.twitter.com/8ZKav0o4DY
— Aaron Ladd (@aaronladdtv) July 23, 2022
Fortunately for Pacheco, his stock has skyrocketed since the Chiefs donned pads at training camp. Special teams coordinator Dave Toub named Pacheco as the team’s top kickoff return option heading into the preseason.“In a few games, we’ll be able to know right away,” Toub said during an Aug. 2 press conference. “He’s promising. He’s a big guy — 215 plus. Ran [a] 4:37 [40-yard dash]. That’s kind of scary back there if we can get that thing going.”Pacheco is already drawing fans’ attention in the running and passing game, with a lot of training camp hype. That hype transition to regular-season production remains to be seen, but the seventh-round selection is certainly improving his chances for the 53-man roster.