The Detroit Lions are back to spending, not losing, as Tom Pelissero is reporting that the team has come to terms with former Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco. No details beyond it being a one-year deal are currently available, but we'll update with more information as it comes in.
Pacheco is an obvious David Montgomery replacement, with the New Jersey native known for his violent running and ability to play second fiddle in the running back room. He needs a ton of help up front to really get going, though, so you'd hope that the Lions begin to fortify their guard room a bit after signing Cade Mays to be their starting center.
At just 28 years old to begin the 2026 season, he aligns nicely with the timeline of the rest of Detroit's offense, and he immediately provides some reliable reps behind Jahmyr Gibbs for Drew Petzing's offense this year.
Pacheco signed to one-year deal with Lions
After losing Montgomery, the Lions had to figure out how to cheaply replace his reps given their cap situation. Again, it's unclear what the actual number is on this deal, but it can't be breaking the bank too much for Detroit. Pacheco just finished up his 2025 season with 462 rushing yards in addition to recording zero fumbles.
However, he's definitely fallen off a bit from his earlier career production. As a rookie, he averaged 4.9 rushing yards per attempt. In 2025, he produced 3.9 yards per carry. With a better run-blocking effort in 2026, presumably, the Lions could have a nice role for Pacheco in relief of Gibbs.
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He also just seems like such a perfect Dan Campbell player. He plays hard, is very passionate on the field, and doesn't give up on plays. With his age, passion, and obviously higher floor than what we saw in 2025, he could be a really nice piece for Petzing as the Lions look to replace Montgomery's production on this roster.