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Chiefs Release Pacheco, Sign Walker III as Lead Back

8/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Kansas City Chiefs released running back Isiah Pacheco, who signed a $1.81 million contract with the Detroit Lions.
Pacheco missed 17 games from 2023-2025 because of shoulder, fibula, rib and knee injuries, including an MCL sprain that sidelined him for 2025.
Chiefs GM Brett Veach signed Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III as the lead back.
Walker is expected to lift the Chiefs’ offense and ease pressure on quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

History

Historical Context

When the NFL introduced its first salary cap in 1994—set at $33.8 million—teams like the San Diego Chargers were forced to cut dozens of starters. The Kansas City Chiefs’ 2024 release of Isiah Pacheco and signing of Kenneth Walker III echo that era, showing how cap compliance still drives major roster overhauls.

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Story summary

The Kansas City Chiefs released running back Isiah Pacheco, who signed a $1.81 million contract with the Detroit Lions.
Pacheco missed 17 games from 2023-2025 because of shoulder, fibula, rib and knee injuries, including an MCL sprain that sidelined him for 2025.
Chiefs GM Brett Veach signed Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III as the lead back.
Walker is expected to lift the Chiefs’ offense and ease pressure on quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

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