After trading David Montgomery, the Detroit Lions needed a new RB2 — and they may have found one. Former Kansas City Chiefs back Isiah Pacheco is heading to Detroit on a one-year deal, bringing physical running and championship experience.
The Detroit Lions have been searching for a new RB2 after trading veteran running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans earlier this offseason. Detroit addressed that need by signing former Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco to a one-year deal worth $1.8M.
Here’s a deeper look at what the Lions are getting in Pacheco and what the signing could mean for Detroit’s backfield.
2025 PFF Grades
According to Pro Football Focus, Pacheco struggled during the 2025 season. He finished with a 58.6 overall grade, including a 67.4 rushing grade and a 35.6 receiving grade. Those numbers reflect a step back from the level he played at earlier in his career.
His efficiency dipped as well, particularly in the passing game where he had issues with drops and consistency.
2025 Statistics
Pacheco’s production last season was modest:
• 118 carries
• 462 rushing yards
• 3.9 yards per carry
• 1 rushing touchdown
• 0 fumbles
In the passing game he was used fairly often but with mixed results:
• 242 routes run
• 26 targets
• 19 receptions
• 101 receiving yards
• 4 drops
The four drops stand out and help explain his low receiving grade. While he was still involved in the offense, he did not produce the explosive plays the Chiefs had come to expect from him earlier in his career.
2024 Season
There are no meaningful PFF grades from the 2024 season because Pacheco did not play enough snaps to qualify. Injuries limited his availability and disrupted what had previously been a promising trajectory.
2023 Breakout Season
Before the injuries and statistical dip, Pacheco had a very strong 2023 season. That year he earned an 82.3 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking 10th among NFL running backs.
His individual grades that season included:
• 83.7 rushing grade (10th among RBs)
• 70.8 receiving grade (12th among RBs)
Pacheco’s 2023 production showed what he can do when fully healthy:
• 205 carries
• 935 rushing yards
• 4.6 yards per carry
• 7 rushing touchdowns
• 1 fumble
He was also reliable in the passing game:
• 50 targets
• 44 receptions
• 244 receiving yards
• 1 drop
That season also showcased his physical running style, as he forced eight missed tackles and consistently ran through contact.
Career Production
Over his NFL career, Pacheco has appeared in 51 games and put together solid numbers overall:
• 576 rushing attempts
• 2,537 rushing yards
• 14 rushing touchdowns
• 4.4 yards per carry
As a receiver he has also been dependable:
• 105 targets
• 88 receptions
• 83.8% catch rate
In total, Pacheco has recorded 664 touches and averaged 4.7 yards per touch across his career.
Why the Move Makes Sense
From Detroit’s perspective, the signing has some clear positives. First, the Lions are actively filling roster holes rather than waiting for the draft. Pacheco also brings championship experience from his time in Kansas City, something that can be valuable in a locker room with Super Bowl aspirations.
His running style also fits Detroit’s identity. Pacheco is known as a tough, aggressive runner who attacks downhill and can push the pile in short-yardage situations. Even when plays aren’t perfectly blocked, he has the strength and motor to grind out extra yards.
The one-year contract is another positive. It gives Detroit flexibility while also creating a low-risk opportunity to see if Pacheco can rediscover his earlier form.
Reasons for Concern
There are also some legitimate concerns with the move. Pacheco’s 2025 PFF grades were among the worst of his career, particularly as a receiver. His recent injury history is another factor that can’t be ignored, as availability has been an issue over the past two seasons.
Additionally, running back wasn’t necessarily the Lions’ most pressing need compared to other areas of the roster.
Overall Outlook
If Pacheco can return to the level he showed in 2023, this could end up being a very good value signing for Detroit. While he may not fully replace the production of Montgomery, he does bring a similar physical running style and toughness.
Interestingly, Pacheco actually owns a slightly higher career yards-per-carry average (4.4) than Montgomery’s 4.1. He also holds a catch rate roughly two percentage points higher over their careers.
Ultimately, this signing comes down to health and consistency. If Pacheco stays healthy and regains his earlier form, the Lions may have quietly found a productive RB2 on a low-risk deal. If not, the short-term contract ensures Detroit can pivot quickly next offseason.