The Kansas City Chiefs have been set at running back for the last few seasons with Isiah Pacheco leading the backfield. After Pacheco missed time with injury, and is entering a contract year, things could change.
Pacheco’s production wasn’t as prominent last season, even when he did return from injury. He only had two games all season over 50 rushing yards, which is far from ideal for a player in a contract year.
After GM Brett Veach confirmed the team would not be extending Pacheco before the season, pressure is building. However, the Chiefs and Veach are known for identifying and developing replacements early—and the 2025 NFL Draft could offer their next solution.
Kansas City Chiefs Draft Damien Martinez to Replace Isiah Pacheco
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, this could be Kansas City’s best opportunity to secure Pacheco’s long-term replacement. While the Chiefs’ offense hasn’t always relied on the run, that could change with the right backfield talent.
One standout option is Damien Martinez, the Miami Hurricanes running back, who has caught Kansas City’s attention. In fact, Martinez has a scheduled two-day visit with the team for an in-depth evaluation.
Damien Martinez: College Star, NFL-Ready
Over three years in college, Martinez totaled:
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3,173 rushing yards
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26 touchdowns
In 2024 alone:
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1,006 rushing yards
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10 touchdowns
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722 yards after contact
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42 missed tackles forced
At just 21 years old, Martinez brings a rare blend of vision, contact balance, and physicality that would be a huge asset to the Chiefs. He’s not afraid of contact and finishes runs with power — an ideal profile for Kansas City’s evolving offense.
If the Chiefs want to move on from Pacheco, Martinez may be their guy.
