Kansas City, MO – April 20, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs, still recovering from their 40–22 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX, are reportedly considering a bold trade with the Washington Commanders to acquire a proven backup running back — a $8 million “insurance policy” for rising star Isaiah Pacheco, according to ESPN.
With concerns over Pacheco’s injury history, Pro Football Network’s Sterling Xie suggests Austin Ekeler as the ideal veteran to complement Patrick Mahomes’ offensive arsenal.
🏈 Injury Worries & Veteran Stability
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Pacheco (26) rushed for 935 yards and 7 touchdowns in 2024
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Missed 3 games with a broken fibula and rib injuries
Meanwhile, Austin Ekeler (30) is in the final year of a two-year, $8.4 million deal. In 2024, he recorded:
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367 rushing yards
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366 receiving yards
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4 touchdowns
… mostly as a secondary option behind Brian Robinson.
Ekeler’s ability as a pass-catching RB (55 receptions in 2023) fits perfectly into Andy Reid’s creative, RB-friendly offense.
“Ekeler with Pacheco? Chiefs backfield = electric!”
🔄 Trade Details & Cap Impact
The Commanders, focused on a youth rebuild, could trade Ekeler for a 2025 sixth-round pick — a low-risk, high-upside deal for Kansas City.
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Chiefs have $12.7 million in cap space
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Ekeler’s $4.2 million cap hit (per Spotrac) fits easily
“Ekeler’s a proven veteran,” said a Chiefs source.
“If Veach lands him — that’s a coup!”
🤝 Why It Makes Sense
With Kareem Hunt and Carson Steele still unproven, Ekeler provides reliability and dual-threat upside. His concussion history (in 2024) raises minor flags, but his prior 5.0 yards per carry seasons show he still has juice.
“He’s a dual-threat spark,” one scout noted.
“Pacheco–Ekeler tandem? Super Bowl vibes!”
With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching on April 24, this potential move could solidify KC’s backfield, protect Mahomes, and make a strong playoff push even more likely.
