May 18, 2023

Pacheco was the 24th running back to be selected during the 2022 NFL Draft (251st overall). He also failed to exceed a 23% snap share during his first six matchups, as Clyde Edwards-Helaire paced the Chiefs in attempts (59/9.8 per game) and rushing yards (256/42.7 per game). However, Edwards-Helaire's involvement eventually dissipated while Pacheco seized the role of lead rusher in Kansas City's high-powered attack. His relentless running style also fueled a statistical eruption that easily exceeded expectations. Pacheco averaged 14 attempts per game from Weeks 10-18, while soaring to fifth in rushing yards (633/70.3 per game) and finishing eighth in yards after contact (341) during that sequence. Pacheco also rose to fifth among rookie backs with 830 rushing yards (48.8 per game) and tied for second with five touchdowns from Weeks 1-18. He is currently recovering from several offseason surgeries (broken hand/torn labrum), and the team's decision to re-sign Jerick McKinnon will place limitations on Pacheco's usage as a receiver. However, Pacheco remains positioned to operate as Kansas City's primary back. after the team declined to exercise Edwards-Helaire's fifth-year option and did not add competition for carries during the offseason. This has solidified Pacheco's placement atop a depth chart that contains Edwards-Helaire, McKinnon, Melvin Gordon, and undrafted free agent Deneric Prince. That should incentivize you to target Pacheco as a low-end RB2 in Round 6 of best ball drafts, and Round 7 in dynasty startup leagues.--Phil Clark