The Kansas City Chiefs have stormed back to St. Joseph, Missouri, for their 2025 training camp, bringing the same fiery intensity that fueled their 15-2 record, an AFC Championship triumph over the Buffalo Bills, and a hard-fought runner-up finish against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX. With their sights set on another championship run, the Chiefs’ camp is buzzing with anticipation—and a few surprises that have fans and analysts talking.
Anchored by Pro Bowler Chris Jones and All-Pro Trent McDuffie, Kansas City’s defense was a powerhouse last season, ranking fourth in the NFL with just 326 points allowed. Their stingy play on that side of the ball often carried an offense that, while still led by the electrifying Patrick Mahomes, occasionally struggled to ignite the explosive plays fans have come to expect. But this week, as the Chiefs kicked off full-squad practices, it’s the potential for big offensive plays that’s stealing the show.
On Wednesday, all eyes were on Mahomes as he connected on a series of deep balls with second-year speedster Xavier Worthy, showcasing the kind of downfield chemistry that could redefine Kansas City’s attack in 2025. Yet, it was an unexpected star who truly lit up the practice field: 26-year-old running back Isiah Pacheco, whose $3.7 million contract belies his outsized impact.
Pacheco, a Vineland, New Jersey, native and Rutgers standout, turned heads—not always for the right reasons—with his route-running during drills. Fans couldn’t help but notice the seventh-round (251st overall) pick from the 2022 NFL Draft as he stumbled through a flat route with an awkward flair that sparked a mix of amusement and admiration on social media.
“Pacheco’s route lmao,” one fan posted on X, capturing the moment’s humor. Another chimed in, “Pacheco should not be out there running,” while a third quipped, “He run routes like Druski.” Yet, not all the reactions poked fun—some saw star potential in his quirky style. “Dudes got the sauce,” one supporter declared, while another dubbed him “a bobble head” with undeniable charisma.
Despite the lighthearted jabs, Pacheco’s credentials are no laughing matter. In 2023, he racked up 935 rushing yards on 205 carries (4.6 yards per attempt) with seven touchdowns, while also hauling in 44 receptions for 244 yards and two scores. His relentless energy and versatility have made him a cornerstone of Kansas City’s backfield. Remarkably, Pacheco holds the distinction of being the only running back in NFL history to win two Super Bowls in his first two seasons, amassing 2,075 rushing yards, 13 rushing touchdowns, 453 receiving yards, and two receiving touchdowns through the end of 2024.
As the Chiefs gear up for another title chase, Pacheco’s unexpected spotlight moment—complete with his unpolished yet oddly captivating route-running—has injected a fresh dose of excitement into camp. With Mahomes and Worthy stretching defenses deep and Pacheco bringing his unique flair, Kansas City’s offense looks poised to rediscover its explosive edge. If Wednesday’s practice is any indication, this $3.7 million star might just be the spark the Chiefs need to light up the 2025 season.