The Detroit Lions will be without running back Isiah Pacheco for an extended period after placing the 27-year-old on injured reserve Tuesday, according to a team announcement.
Pacheco is managing two separate injuries that will sideline him from game action. The veteran ball carrier sustained a back injury during training camp and is also dealing with an MCL sprain, creating complications that necessitate his placement on the reserve list.
The move represents a setback for Detroit's backfield depth as the regular season begins. Under current NFL rules, players placed on injured reserve must miss a minimum of four games before becoming eligible to return to active duty.
The MCL sprain affects the medial collateral ligament in the knee, an injury that typically requires several weeks of recovery depending on severity. Combined with the back issue that emerged during camp, the dual injuries presented enough concern for the Lions' medical staff and coaching personnel to opt for the IR designation rather than attempting to manage Pacheco's availability on a week-to-week basis.
The Lions will need to adjust their running back rotation in Pacheco's absence as they navigate the early portion of their 2026 campaign.
