Who Should I Start? Jerick McKinnon or Isiah Pacheco

Wednesday, January 10, 12:32 PM

Kansas City Chiefs running back Jerick McKinnon (hernia, pelvis) was on crutches on Tuesday in his first day back at the team's facility following sports-hernia surgery on Jan. 2, which was performed by Dr. Williams Meyers. In addition to a sports hernia, McKinnon fractured his pelvis. It all means that McKinnon is doubtful to return for the postseason, even if the Chiefs make another run to the Super Bowl this year. The 31-year-old is eligible for free agency in March but has expressed interest in returning to Kansas City. McKinnon missed the final three games of the regular season and finished 2023 with just 21 carries for 60 yards and one touchdown while adding 25 receptions for 192 yards and four touchdowns through the air in 12 games played. Clyde Edwards-Helaire will have a bigger role as the No. 2 in KC's backfield behind Isiah Pacheco now that McKinnon is out.

Saturday, October 25, 4:32 PM

Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco will take on the Washington Commanders in Week 8. The Chiefs running back handled 15 carries for 57 yards and a touchdown in their 31-0 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 7. Pacheco has seemingly taken over the lead role out of the Kansas City backfield, handling at least 12 carries and 50 yards in each of the past two weeks. Pacheco has quietly been efficient with his touches, averaging at least 4.5 yards per carry in more than half of his games. The struggles of the Kansas City run game early on could more likely be attributed to the inefficiency of Kareem Hunt and the team's dedication to keeping him involved. Pacheco should continue being the lead back this week against the Commanders, who have been middle-of-the-pack in fantasy points allowed to opposing running backs this season. The 26-year-old back should see a high volume of touches in a home game that the Chiefs have favored by nearly 12 points. Pacheco is ranked RB23 in our RotoBaller Half-PPR rankings, making him a low-end RB2 option on Monday night.