The Detroit Lions face a new challenge as they start their season against the New Orleans Saints in Week 1. The team will be without Isiah Pacheco, a crucial depth player in their backfield. This follows the offseason trade of David Montgomery to the Houston Texans for future draft picks and center Juice Scruggs.
In March, the Lions secured Isiah Pacheco with a one-year, $1.81 million contract. He was expected to complement star running back Jahmyr Gibbs. However, Pacheco’s back injury has placed him on injured reserve for at least the first four games of the season, as reported by Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Pacheco has been a significant player in his four years in the NFL, rushing 576 times for 2,537 yards and scoring 14 touchdowns. His absence impacts the Lions’ game plan as they look to begin their season on a strong note.
Lions placed RB Isiah Pacheco on injured reserve due to a back injury that now will sideline him for at least four games.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell expressed confidence in Jacob Saylors to step up if needed. Although comfortable with Saylors, Campbell is open to exploring additional options to strengthen the backfield.
Jacob Saylors joined the league in 2023 as an undrafted free agent and has experience with the Lions. In the 2025 season, he participated in 16 games with two rushing attempts for 11 yards. Alongside Saylors, the Lions have running backs Sione Vaki and Jabari Small available on their active roster.
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