Kansas City Chiefs Find Isiah Pacheco’s Replacement

The Kansas City Chiefs have been set at running back for the last few seasons with Isiah Pacheco leading the backfield. After Pacheco missed time with injury, and is entering a contract year, things could change.

Pacheco’s production wasn’t as prominent last season, even when he did return from injury. Pacheco only had two games all season where he went over 50 yards last year, with Pacheco entering a contract year, this is not ideal.

After Brett Veach confirmed they would not be extending Pacheco before the season, the pressure is on. But for the Chiefs and Veach, they are known for getting talent on the team to replace potential departing players. Through the 2025 NFL Draft, they could do the same for Pacheco.

Kansas City Chiefs Draft Damien Martinez to Replace Isiah Pacheco

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches this is the chance for Kansas City to secure their replacement for Isiah Pacheco. Even though running the football isn’t a huge focal point for the Chiefs’ offense, it is something that must change, and how they do so is with a reliable player in the backfield.

One of the players emerging as an option for the Chiefs is Miami Hurricanes running back, Damien Martinez. Enough so that Martinez has a two-day visit scheduled with Kansas City for an evaluation.

Damien Martinez 🚂🚂 pic.twitter.com/P3GxDHdmX9

— Hayden Winks (@HaydenWinks) April 1, 2025

Over Damien Martinez’s three years in college, he rushed for 3,173 yards and 26 touchdowns. Just this past season alone he rushed for 1,006 yards and 10 touchdowns, while also creating 722 yards after contact and forcing 42 missed tackles. 

Martinez being just 21 showcases he has a bright future ahead, and with his skill set, would greatly elevate the Chiefs’ offense. Martinez is running back with exceptional balance, and isn’t afraid to embrace contact to finish a play. For the Chiefs to replace Pacheco, Martinez is ideal.