Reinforcements are on the way for the Kansas City Chiefs in the form of running back Isiah Pacheco. He just won't arrive until Week 12.
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According to a Sunday morning report from NFL insider Ian Rapoport, the team's top running back is set for a return to the lineup next weekend against the Carolina Panthers.
"(Pacheco) started practicing this week, not quite ready," Rapoport said on NFL GameDay Morning. "My understanding is that he is expected to be healthy enough next week.
"They have a short week coming up after that so maybe the trainers hold him out as a precaution...but he is coming, and it should be soon."
Pacheco, who rushed for 935 yards last season, only appeared in two games this season. He rushed for 45 yards and a touchdown during a Week 1 win over the Ravens. He then rushed for 90 yards one week later against the Bengals.
The running back did not finish the game against the Bengals. He left the field after three defenders tackled him, and he had to receive attention from the medical staff.
The initial tests showed that Pacheco had fractured his fibula. He underwent more testing the Monday after the 26-25 win and ultimately had surgery to repair the damage.
The Chiefs placed Pacheco on Injured Reserve, where he has remained. Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills marks the eighth consecutive matchup that the running back has missed while on Injured Reserve.
The week leading up to the AFC matchup provided a positive outlook for Pacheco and the Chiefs. He returned to practice in a limited fashion. However, head coach Andy Reid confirmed that the third-year running back would not yet make his return to the gameday lineup.
The Chiefs have relied on multiple running backs during Pacheco's absence. Rookie Carson Steele has played a role, but the top option has been Kareem Hunt. The veteran returned to Kansas City in mid-September and has since rushed for 449 yards and five touchdowns.
