Isiah Pacheco Out: Kareem Hunt Becomes KC RB1, Fantasy Implications

Isiah Pacheco's Season Ending: Kareem Hunt Becomes KC RB1

The Kansas City Chiefs' injury situation at running back took a devastating turn this week when Isiah Pacheco suffered a season-ending knee injury, forcing the team to turn to veteran Kareem Hunt as the primary ball carrier. This sudden shift creates significant fantasy implications for teams both with and without Hunt in their lineups.

The Injury: What Happened to Pacheco?

Isiah Pacheco's 2025 season has come to an end due to a serious knee injury (ACL). The young running back, who was establishing himself as a featured back in Andy Reid's high-powered offense, will be sidelined for the remainder of the year.

This is a crushing blow to:

• Pacheco owners: Season over for your RB
• Chiefs' running game: Lost their primary ball carrier
• Fantasy managers: Must pivot immediately to the backfield

Kareem Hunt Takes Over

With Pacheco sidelined, the Chiefs have turned to veteran Kareem Hunt as their starting running back. Hunt, a former elite fantasy asset who has seen his production dip in recent years, suddenly finds himself back in a position of relevance and opportunity.

Hunt's New Role:

• Primary ball carrier in Andy Reid's elite offense
• Likely to see 15-20+ touches per game
• Involved in both rushing and passing plays
• High-powered offensive line providing lanes

Fantasy Football Impact Analysis

Hunt's Projection:

• Ranking: RB 12-18 in PPR leagues (significant upgrade from previous bench status)
• Weekly Outlook: RB2 with RB1 upside in favorable matchups
• Trade Value: Elevated significantly - use this opportunity to your advantage

Weekly Point Projection: Given the Chiefs' offensive efficiency and Reid's system, Hunt could realistically project for:

• 12-16 rushing attempts per game
• 4-6 receiving targets
• 80-120 rushing yards
• Touchdown upside on 15-20% of drives

This translates to approximately 12-18 fantasy points per game in PPR formats.

Andy Reid's System is Perfect for Hunt

The Chiefs' head coach has a track record of maximizing running back production through high usage and strategic play design. Hunt will benefit from:

• Quality offensive line: One of the league's best
• Defensive attention: Teams will focus on stopping Travis Kelce and the passing game
• Game script: Chiefs will likely control games, establishing the run

Week 10 and Beyond

Upcoming Schedule: Hunt's first few weeks as the primary back will be critical for determining his ceiling in this offense.

Waiver Wire Priority: If Hunt is still available in your league, he should be a top-3 waiver priority this week.

Trade Considerations:

• If you don't own Hunt and he's available, submit aggressive trade offers
• Hunt's value spike makes this an opportune time to acquire him at relatively low cost
• Sellers at running back should be demanding premium price for Hunt now

Comparison to Previous Chiefs RB Situations

Andy Reid's system has a strong track record with elite running back production:

• Recent examples: Quality fantasy performers in similar circumstances
• System design: Built to distribute touches to running backs
• Passing strength: Opens up running lanes through play-action

Health Factors to Monitor

Hunt's age and injury history should be monitored:

• Previous injuries in his career
• Workload management heading into playoffs
• Any emerging injuries during the season

However, for now, the opportunity is clear and immediate.

Key Takeaways

• Kareem Hunt is NOW a league-relevant player after existing in fantasy obscurity
• Immediate waiver priority: Fight for him on the wire
• Trading window: Quick moves could land you a potential playoff-winning back
• Andy Reid system: Historically supports elite RB production
• Playoff implications: Hunt could be a difference-maker in your fantasy season

Action Items for Fantasy Managers

If you don't own Hunt:

• Use your waiver claim on him immediately
• Offer trades if he's unavailable
• Don't let him end up on a competing team's roster

If you own Hunt:

• Plan to start him with confidence
• Monitor his development each week
• Be prepared to buy low on other RBs as teams panic-sell

If you owned Pacheco:

• Mourn the loss and pivot
• Consider hunting for Hunt
• Don't overreact - stay patient with pickups

This situation is a perfect example of how injuries and opportunities shift fantasy football from week to week. Smart managers who act decisively could unlock significant value that carries them through the playoff stretch.