Isiah Pacheco is gearing up for his second season in the NFL. The Kansas City Chiefs running back, a seventh round pick out of Rutgers, opened a lot of eyes with his performance last year.
The play of Pacheco, who won the starting job with the Chiefs by midseason, played a major part in his team winning the Super Bowl.
During the regular season, Pacheco ran for 830 yards and five touchdowns on 170 carries. He also played on special teams as a kickoff returner.
His season was capped off with a touchdown in the second quarter of the Chiefs’ win in the Super Bowl.
On Tuesday, Pacheco told reporters that he remains motivated as he heads into the Week 1 as the starting running back for the Chiefs.
“I’m just not satisfied. I find that there is more to be done out there, day-by-day. That’s how I get better,” Pacheco told reporters.
“Whatever is next for me work on work on tomorrow, I’ll figure that out soon as we get in this meeting, to pinpoint that, to work on to get better tomorrow.”
The yellow non-contact injury has come off for Pacheco, signaling that last season’s shoulder injury (and offseason surgery). He could potentially play this weekend in the final preseason game when the Chiefs host the Cleveland Browns.
“I’m always ready, I stay ready so you got to get ready,” Pacheco said.
“If my number gets called or not, I’ll be prepared.”
Pacheco has stated that he hopes to take a step forward this season from his rookie campaign. During the press conference, he noted that he has been working on his flexibility this offseason to better handle the NFL grind.
“It takes the mental toughness to be able to find a routine to be able to maintain the shape of your body. For me, it was finding older guys to ask them questions, to pick their brains about how they take care of their bodies,” Pacheco said.
“For me, it was what I love doing because I love talking about the game and taking care of myself.”
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