KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs have activated running back Isiah Pacheco and defensive end Charles Omenihu ahead of their game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Friday. Both players are expected to contribute on the field as the reigning Super Bowl champions look to strengthen their lineup.
Pacheco, who has been the primary running back for the team during the previous three seasons, has been sidelined since Week 2 due to a fractured right fibula incurred during a match against Cincinnati. After a couple of weeks of rehabilitation and practice, the Chiefs have decided it’s the right time to reintegrate him into the team. In the brief time he played this season, Pacheco managed to record 34 carries for 135 yards and a touchdown before his injury.
Following Pacheco’s injury, the Chiefs brought in veteran running back Kareem Hunt, who has performed admirably in his absence. The combination of Hunt and Pacheco is anticipated to create a formidable backfield duo, reminiscent of Hunt’s successful years with Nick Chubb in Cleveland. Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy shared his enthusiasm, stating, “The best part about that is you don’t have just one where he’s getting worn down to the point of being 50 or 60 percent in the third quarter. Now you have two that are working at 100 percent.”
On the other hand, Charles Omenihu has not participated in games since tearing his right ACL during last season’s playoffs. His previous season was marked by a strong performance, where he accumulated seven sacks across 11 regular-season games, alongside 12 quarterback pressures. His return is hoped to significantly bolster a pass rush that currently ranks among the lowest in the NFL, with just 21 sacks to its name.
Chris Jones, a defensive tackle for the Chiefs, highlighted Omenihu’s versatility, saying, “Charles’ versatility, going inside and out, adds another level of depth to our defense, especially the D-line. And he’s a pass rusher. It’s always good to get more pass rushers on the field.”
In terms of special teams, the Chiefs have ruled out kicker Spencer Shrader, who temporarily filled in for the injured Harrison Butker. Shrader strained his hamstring earlier this week, leading to Matthew Wright taking over kicking responsibilities for the game. Coach Andy Reid expressed confidence in Wright, stating, “We all have trust in him from having been around him, so we look forward to welcoming him into the mix.”
Additionally, tight end Anthony Firkser has been promoted from the practice squad following Peyton Hendershot’s placement on injured reserve. Reid acknowledged Firkser’s intelligence and familiarity with the team dynamics, noting, “Again, he’s another one that’s coming back to us, so we’re familiar with him and kind of what he can do. Obviously a brilliant guy, and we’ve worked him in there, so he’s been getting some reps.”