The Detroit Lions have suffered an early training-camp setback involving running back Isiah Pacheco, who is dealing with a sprained medial collateral ligament (MCL) in his knee. The injury has forced Pacheco to miss practice, but the Lions remain optimistic that the veteran running back will be available when the regular season begins.
Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed the injury while addressing reporters Monday. Pacheco has missed three consecutive practices, creating some concern about his availability as the Lions continue preparations for the 2026 season. However, Campbell indicated that the injury is not currently viewed as a long-term problem and that the team expects Pacheco to be ready for the regular-season opener.
That timeline is particularly important because Pacheco was brought to Detroit this offseason to strengthen the team’s running back room. The former Kansas City Chiefs standout signed a one-year, $1.81 million contract with the Lions in March. He is expected to serve as an important complementary option behind star running back Jahmyr Gibbs.
Pacheco brings valuable experience to Detroit. During his four seasons with Kansas City, he established himself as a physical runner and played an important role on two Super Bowl-winning teams. Across 51 career regular-season games, he has accumulated more than 3,000 yards from scrimmage and 17 touchdowns.
The MCL sprain is therefore an unfortunate interruption at a time when Pacheco was attempting to become comfortable in a new offensive system. Missing training-camp practices can limit opportunities to build chemistry with the offensive line and quarterbacks, while also making it more difficult to compete for touches and establish a role before the season begins.
Fortunately for Detroit, the team’s running back depth should allow the Lions to manage Pacheco’s absence. Gibbs remains the centerpiece of the backfield, while other running backs can receive additional opportunities during practice and preseason action. Reports from Lions camp indicate that players such as Jacob Saylors and Jabari Small have taken increased reps when Pacheco and other backs have been unavailable.
The Lions will nevertheless have a reason to be cautious. MCL injuries can vary considerably in severity, and rushing Pacheco back before he is fully comfortable could create additional problems. Detroit’s priority should be making sure he is healthy enough to handle the physical demands of the regular season rather than forcing him onto the field during training camp.
For now, the news is more encouraging than alarming. Pacheco is out, but the injury is not expected to keep him sidelined into the regular season. If his recovery progresses as anticipated, he should have an opportunity to return before Detroit opens its campaign against the New Orleans Saints on September 13.
For the Lions, the key will be patience. Pacheco’s physical running style could make him a valuable piece of the offense, but there is little reason to take unnecessary risks with a player the team expects to contribute throughout the 2026 season.
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