Kansas City Chiefs & Andy Reid at a Crossroads: Will They Draft a Hometown Star to Succeed Isiah Pacheco?

The Chiefs Face a Big Decision

The Kansas City Chiefs, led by legendary head coach Andy Reid, are once again at a critical point in their dynasty. Fresh off another strong season, the Chiefs are looking toward the future—particularly at the running back position. While Isiah Pacheco has been a major success story, the question remains: Should the Chiefs draft a hometown star to eventually take his place?

As the NFL Draft approaches, Kansas City faces a difficult but exciting dilemma. Do they continue to rely on Pacheco, or should they draft a young, local talent to groom for the future?

Key Topics in This Article:

The rise of Isiah Pacheco and his impact on the Chiefs
Kansas City’s historical approach to drafting running backs
Potential hometown stars the Chiefs could target in the draft
Andy Reid’s strategy and the long-term outlook for the running game
What this decision means for the Chiefs’ dynasty and Patrick Mahomes

Let’s dive deep into why this draft decision could shape Kansas City’s offense for years to come.

The Rise of Isiah Pacheco: Kansas City’s Breakout Star

When the Kansas City Chiefs drafted Isiah Pacheco in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft, few expected him to become their starting running back so quickly. Coming out of Rutgers, Pacheco was seen as a raw but explosive talent, and many believed he would be a depth piece in the Chiefs’ backfield.

But within two seasons, he transformed into one of the most reliable backs in the NFL.

Why Pacheco Became a Chiefs Fan Favorite

Hard-nosed running style: Pacheco runs with ferocity, often lowering his shoulder to punish defenders.
Explosiveness: Despite his aggressive running, he also has the speed to break away from defenders.
Pass-catching ability: In a Patrick Mahomes-led offense, versatility is key, and Pacheco has proven to be a valuable target out of the backfield.
Clutch performances: Pacheco shined in the playoffs, helping Kansas City capture another Super Bowl title.

But as great as Pacheco has been, the NFL is always about looking ahead. Running backs have shorter careers due to the physical nature of the position, and the Chiefs may want to find a young successor before it’s too late.

Andy Reid’s History with Running Backs

Before analyzing potential hometown stars the Chiefs could target, it’s important to understand Andy Reid’s approach to the running back position.

1. Does Andy Reid Value Elite Running Backs?

Reid’s offenses have never relied on a single superstar running back. Instead, he has favored a committee approach or low-cost options who fit his system.

Historical Examples:
 In Philadelphia, he built an offense around Brian Westbrook and LeSean McCoy, both of whom were versatile pass-catching backs.
 In Kansas City, he found success with Jamaal Charles, Kareem Hunt, and Damien Williams—all talented backs who thrived in Reid’s system.

Pacheco fits this mold perfectly, but Reid also isn’t afraid to move on if a better option emerges.

2. Why Would Kansas City Draft Another Running Back?

Injury concerns – Pacheco plays with an aggressive running style, which makes him more prone to injuries.
Financial planning – The Chiefs must manage their salary cap, and running backs often have shorter, cost-controlled careers.
Finding a dual-threat back – If Kansas City finds a young, hometown running back with elite pass-catching skills, it could elevate the offense even more.

The Search for a Hometown Star: Who Could Be Pacheco’s Successor?

Kansas City has always valued local talent, and this year’s NFL Draft class has a few intriguing options. If the Chiefs decide to look for a future successor to Pacheco, here are some hometown prospects they could consider:

1. Devin Neal (Kansas Jayhawks)

Height/Weight: 5’11”, 210 lbs
College: Kansas Jayhawks
Strengths: Explosive burst, vision, and home-run ability
Weaknesses: Needs to improve as a receiver

Why the Chiefs Might Draft Him:
Devin Neal is a Kansas native, making him a true hometown pick. He has breakaway speed and the ability to hit the hole with authority—traits that could complement Pacheco’s power running style.

2. Emani Bailey (TCU Horned Frogs)

Height/Weight: 5’9”, 207 lbs
College: TCU
Strengths: Shifty footwork, solid pass-catcher, great vision
Weaknesses: Lacks top-end speed

Why the Chiefs Might Draft Him:
Bailey played college football in the Midwest and showed versatility at TCU. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield could make him an ideal fit in Kansas City’s offense.

3. Cody Schrader (Missouri Tigers)

Height/Weight: 5’10”, 215 lbs
College: Missouri Tigers
Strengths: Hard-nosed runner, physical, tough in short-yardage situations
Weaknesses: Lacks elite speed, limited as a receiver

Why the Chiefs Might Draft Him:
Coming from Missouri, Schrader has regional ties to Kansas City. He plays with toughness and grit, much like Pacheco, making him a logical backup or future starter.

How Would a New Running Back Fit in the Chiefs’ Offense?

If Kansas City drafts a hometown running back, how would they use him?

As a change-of-pace option – Kansas City could use a rookie running back in a complementary role to Pacheco, keeping both fresh.
As a future starter – If Pacheco suffers injuries or regresses, a young running back could take over the RB1 spot.
As a third-down back – A versatile, pass-catching back would give Patrick Mahomes another weapon in the passing game.

Kansas City is always looking ahead, and finding a local talent could be the perfect move for long-term success.

What This Decision Means for Patrick Mahomes & the Chiefs’ Future

Mahomes Needs Help in the Backfield: While he is the best quarterback in the league, he benefits from having a strong running game to keep defenses honest.

Andy Reid’s System Is Evolving: With Travis Kelce aging and new receivers developing, the Chiefs could shift toward a more balanced offensive attack in the future.

A Local Star Would Energize the Fan Base: If the Chiefs draft a hometown player, it could create even more excitement in Kansas City.

With their dynasty in full swing, Kansas City must decide if Pacheco is their long-term answer—or if the future lies in a new, homegrown talent.

Final Thoughts: Should the Chiefs Draft a Running Back?

Kansas City is at a crossroads when it comes to their backfield future. While Isiah Pacheco has been outstanding, Andy Reid and the Chiefs’ front office must consider all options.

Will they draft a hometown star to eventually replace Pacheco?
Or will they stick with their current backfield and look for help elsewhere?

No matter what happens, one thing is clear: The Kansas City Chiefs are always thinking ahead, and their next move could define their future success.

What do you think? Should the Chiefs draft a local running back, or stick with Pacheco? Let us know in the comments!