1. Isiah Pacheco, Running Back
Isiah Pacheco has been an integral part of the Chiefs’ offense through the first three years of his career. He racked up 830 rushing yards and five touchdowns in his rookie season and 935 yards and seven touchdowns in Year 2.
Unfortunately, he took a step back last year, rushing for only 310 yards and one touchdown as he was limited by injuries.
Trading him would be a seismic move—his energy and production have been jet fuel for two Super Bowl runs. Fans might clutch their pearls, but the logic comes into focus when you zoom out and look at the full map.
The Chiefs have Kareem Hunt and Elijah Mitchell under contract for 2025, giving them serviceable options at running back. Moving Pacheco could bring a late Day 2 or early Day 3 pick—an asset they could desperately use to reload for another Super Bowl run.
Pacheco will also be a free agent after the 2025 NFL season. Recuperating a draft pick now allows them to make out ahead with their 2022 seventh-round pick.
The Chiefs could entice a running-back needy team by selling them on Pacheco's grit and toughness. In return, Kansas City gets a draft pick to add to their stock.
General manager Brett Veach has never shied away from a gamble, and this trade could be the spark to reignite another run at multiple Super Bowls. It’s a tough call—Pacheco’s a fan favorite with a motor that doesn’t quit—but sometimes you have to let go of a good thing to chase something greater.