Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 12, 2024 8:02 pm GMT
The Kansas City Chiefs have made a significant move in response to injuries impacting their running back corps, signing Keaontay Ingram to their active roster while placing Isiah Pacheco on Injured Reserve. This decision reflects the team’s strategy to maintain depth in a position that has seen recent setbacks.
Keaontay Ingram Joins Chiefs Roster
On September 18, 2024, the Chiefs solidified their backfield by bringing in 24-year-old running back Keaontay Ingram from their practice squad. This move comes as Isiah Pacheco has been sidelined with an injury, necessitating a shift in the team’s roster strategy.
- Ingram’s Background: Previously, Ingram served as a backup running back for the Arizona Cardinals over the past two seasons. His experience in the league could be vital for the Chiefs as they navigate challenges during the ongoing season.
- Role Expectations: Although Ingram is now part of the active roster, his role is expected to be limited. Analysts predict Ingram will participate in a few plays but primarily provide depth as the Chiefs manage their running game.
Impact of Isiah Pacheco’s Injury
The decision to place Isiah Pacheco on Injured Reserve significantly impacts the Chiefs’ offensive lineup. Pacheco has been a key player for the Chiefs, and his absence will be felt on the field. The move to put him on IR means he will miss a minimum of four games, forcing the team to adjust their offensive strategies.
- Injury Overview: The precise nature of Pacheco’s injury has not been disclosed, but the team is likely to rely on other backs in his absence.
- Running Back Depth: With Pacheco sidelined, the backfield will need to be restructured. Running backs Carson Steele and Samaje Perine are expected to shoulder the majority of the workload moving forward. Steele may focus on early-down carries, while Perine is anticipated to handle most third-down assignments.
Adding Experience to the Roster
In addition to signing Ingram, the Chiefs have made another noteworthy change by adding veteran running back Kareem Hunt to their practice squad. Hunt’s experience in the league could provide invaluable guidance and depth as the Chiefs work through their roster adjustments.
- Hunt’s Return: Hunt previously played for the Chiefs before moving on to other teams. His familiarity with the Chiefs’ system and culture could ease his transition back into the organization.
Future Outlook for Chiefs’ Running Game
As the Chiefs look ahead to upcoming games, the running back rotation appears complicated. The coaching staff will need to strategically manage the depth chart to ensure that they maximize their offensive capabilities.
- Projected RB Rotation:
1. Carson Steele – Expected to handle the majority of the early-down carries.
2. Samaje Perine – Likely to take on most third-down situations.
3. Keaontay Ingram – Will rotate in for select plays to provide relief and fresh legs.
As of now, the integration of Ingram and the utilization of Steele and Perine will be crucial for the Chiefs as they prepare for their next opponents.
- Keaontay Ingram signed to active roster
- Isiah Pacheco placed on Injured Reserve
- Kareem Hunt added to practice squad
- Carson Steele and Samaje Perine as primary RBs moving forward
Conclusion
The Chiefs are making some changes to their team to deal with injuries. They added Keaontay Ingram to the active roster and moved Kareem Hunt up so they can keep their running game strong. As the season goes on, everyone will be watching to see how these changes affect how well the team plays. It might be tough at first, but the Chiefs’ coaches are prepared to help the team through these challenges.
