Isiah Pacheco news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Lions RB Isiah Pacheco sprained his MCL in training camp, but coach Dan Campbell expects him ready for Week 1. His injury history raises durability concerns for Detroit's new signing.
Background
Isiah Pacheco, who signed a one-year, $1.81 million deal with the Lions in March after four seasons with the Chiefs, suffered an MCL sprain during training camp. He has missed significant time due to injuries in recent seasons, including a fractured fibula in 2024 and a knee issue in 2025. The Lions brought him in to help replace the impact of the David Montgomery trade, and his availability is important for their backfield depth.
How it unfolded
- Mar 2026Pacheco signed a one-year, $1.81 million deal with the Lions after completing his rookie contract with the Chiefs.
- Aug 3, 2026Pacheco walked off the field following a Lions training camp practice, later revealed to be an MCL sprain.
- Aug 10, 2026Coach Dan Campbell announced Pacheco has a 'little' MCL sprain and expects him to be ready for Week 1.
- Aug 12, 2026Reports indicate Pacheco is on pace to suit up for the regular-season opener, potentially boosting his fantasy draft stock.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Coach Dan Campbell said, 'We feel pretty good about him being ready to go, certainly, when the season gets here. I'm not concerned about that.'
- Caution
- Some analysts note Pacheco has missed 17 games combined from 2023 through 2025, raising concerns about his durability.
- Bulls
- Fantasy analysts suggest Pacheco's timeline could boost his draft position if he is confirmed ready for Week 1.
Still unverified
The exact severity of the MCL sprain and whether Pacheco will face any limitations in Week 1 are not fully disclosed.