Pacheco’s role is central to KC’s balance of run and pass. The offense’s success hinges on his ability to force and exploit gaps, while the line unlocks the big plays that keep KC unpredictable.

Pacheco returns from a fractured fibula and enters a full-offseason build toward reclaiming Kansas City’s bell-cow role. After a rough injury-marred 2024, the Chiefs’ backfield is set to lean on a healthy Pacheco, with Hunt’s departure widening the door for 260–300 carries and double-digit TDs in a high-scoring offense.

Pacheco anchors the KC backfield in a four-man group, with Hunt and Mitchell and Smith battle for backfield depth. Pacheco’s role remains front-and-center as the lead ball-carrier in a balanced offense designed to maximize efficiency and pace behind the 53-man roster strategy.

Pacheco is highlighted as a solid RB2 target with ADP around 65, riding KC’s ground game and early-season snaps. The write-up underscores the safety of a high-powered offense, while still projecting Pacheco as a strong anchor on the back end of RB2 territory with upside if the offense can sustain drives.

Pacheco's 2024 inefficiency was masked by volume; with improved health and a clearer backfield role in 2025, his fantasy value could rebound as a primary rusher in KC, benefiting from a stronger line and potentially more goal-line work, making him a relevant RB2 with spike-week potential.