Lions RB Isiah Pacheco was placed on IR and will be out at least four games. Pacheco signed a one-year $1.81 million contract this offseason as the likely backup to Jahmyr Gibbs. He’s been dealing with a back issue during training camp that ultimately landed him on IR.
What They're Saying: At Least Four Games
Tom Pelissero, The Ringer: “The Lions placed RB Isiah Pacheco (back) on injured reserve. He’s out at least four games.”
2026 Fantasy Football Impact: The Lions' Depth Gets Thin
The Lions will turn to the rest of their RB room to spell Gibbs while Pacheco is out.
Jacob Saylors, a 2023 UDFA out of East Tennessee State, figures to be the primary backup heading into Week 1 after a strong preseason capped by 100 yards on 17 carries in the Lions’ final preseason game.
The team also kept Sione Vaki and Jabari Small on the roster, likely anticipating Pacheco would head to IR.
Pacheco's absence strengthens Gibbs' case as the 1.01 in all upcoming drafts, regardless of format. He should get a full workload both on the ground and through the air with no experienced option behind him.
It also knocks Pacheco out of draftable range. No other Lions’ RB outside of Pacheco should be drafted in leagues with 14 teams or fewer. Very deep leagues could consider Saylors, though he likely would split touches if Gibbs misses time within this window.
