Detroit Lions running back Isiah Pacheco will be sidelined for an extended period following back surgery, head coach Dan Campbell announced Monday. The procedure involved removing tissue that was compressing a nerve, with an expected recovery timeline of approximately 12 weeks.
Pacheco’s absence means increased offensive responsibilities for Jahmyr Gibbs, who delivered a dominant performance in the Lions’ season-opening overtime victory against New Orleans. Gibbs rushed for 156 yards and two touchdowns on a career-high 29 carries while adding five receptions for 30 yards in the 31-30 win.
The setback compounds an already difficult start to Pacheco’s tenure with Detroit. The running back, signed to a one-year contract to serve as the team’s secondary back, missed most of training camp with a knee injury and suffered the back injury while recovering from that ailment. He did not appear in the Lions’ first game of the season.
With Pacheco unavailable, backup running back Sione Vaki is expected to receive increased playing time alongside Gibbs. Vaki appeared in the Saints game with mixed results, recording two carries for seven yards and one reception for 11 yards. The Lions may also deploy Jacob Saylors at the position in upcoming games.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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