The
Under current NFL regulations, this roster move mandates that Pacheco will be sidelined for a minimum of four games. The decision comes after head coach
Injury setbacks delay Pacheco's Lions debut
Pacheco joined the Lions as a free agent during the offseason, brought in to bolster the backfield alongside
The running back's recent history has been complicated by health issues. In 2024, he suffered a broken fibula in his right leg, an injury that impacted his performance and explosiveness on the field. The Lions were hopeful that he would be ready to contribute by Week 1, but the combination of his recent back issue and the MCL sprain has necessitated a more conservative approach to his return.
Coach Campbell addresses the recovery process
Speaking on August 27, head coach Dan Campbell noted the uncertainty surrounding the situation, acknowledging that the player's progress had been inconsistent. At that time, Campbell mentioned that while Pacheco was showing signs of improvement, the back injury remained a point of concern for the coaching staff.
With Pacheco now officially on the injured reserve, the Lions will have to navigate the opening weeks of the season without his services. The team will monitor his recovery closely over the coming month, with his eligibility to return dependent on his progress in overcoming both the MCL sprain and the back injury that has hampered his preparation for the 2026 campaign.
