Kansas City Chiefs Expect Toney and Pacheco to be Ready for Week 1
By Adam Teicher, ESPN Staff Writer
Aug 7, 2023, 05:42 PM ET
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Kansas City Chiefs are optimistic about the availability of wide receiver Kadarius Toney and running back Isiah Pacheco for their regular season opener against the Detroit Lions.
“Organizationally, we feel pretty good those guys will be ready to play, barring no setbacks,” said general manager Brett Veach. “I think we’re in a good place with both of those guys.”
Toney suffered a torn meniscus during the Chiefs’ opening practice of training camp and underwent surgery. He has not returned to practice yet.
Pacheco had surgeries on his hand and shoulder during the offseason. He has been participating in limited practice sessions during camp but has not been cleared for contact.
The Chiefs have high hopes for Toney, who was acquired from the New York Giants midway through last season. He played a significant role in the team’s Super Bowl LVII victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, scoring a touchdown in the fourth quarter and setting up another with a 65-yard punt return.
Pacheco, as a rookie, led the Chiefs in rushing last season. He contributed 76 yards and a touchdown in the Super Bowl.
In addition to Toney and Pacheco, the Chiefs have also been without their top pass-rusher, Chris Jones, during training camp. Jones is facing daily fines of $50,000 for his absence as he seeks a new contract. He still has one year remaining on his current four-year deal signed in 2020.
Veach expressed confidence that a deal with Jones will eventually be reached. “When it gets done, I can’t answer that,” Veach said. “There’s no thought or mindset to trade or anything like that. Our intention is to get something done. We aren’t there yet. The first game isn’t until Sept. 7, so that’s a positive for us. Chris has played in this scheme now for a few years, and he does a great job of staying in shape.”
The Chiefs are hopeful that Toney and Pacheco will be able to contribute significantly to their offense in the upcoming season. Both players have shown their potential and playmaking abilities in previous games.
With Toney’s speed and agility, he can be a dynamic deep threat and a reliable target for quarterback Patrick Mahomes. His ability to make big plays after the catch and contribute on special teams makes him a valuable asset to the Chiefs’ offense.
Pacheco, on the other hand, brings a physical running style and the ability to break tackles. His performance in the Super Bowl demonstrated his ability to step up in big moments and make crucial plays for the team.
The Chiefs’ offense will greatly benefit from having Toney and Pacheco back on the field. Their presence will provide additional options for Mahomes and create more opportunities for explosive plays.
As for Chris Jones, his return to the team will undoubtedly bolster the Chiefs’ defense. Jones is a dominant force on the defensive line, capable of disrupting opposing offenses and generating pressure on the quarterback. His absence during training camp may be a concern, but the Chiefs remain optimistic about reaching a contract agreement with him before the start of the season.
In conclusion, the Kansas City Chiefs are optimistic about the availability of Kadarius Toney and Isiah Pacheco for their regular season opener against the Detroit Lions. Both players have been recovering from injuries but are expected to be ready to contribute to the team. Additionally, the Chiefs are working towards reaching a contract agreement with Chris Jones, their top pass-rusher. The return of Toney, Pacheco, and Jones will greatly enhance the Chiefs’ chances of success in the upcoming season.