Lions RB Pacheco dealing with multiple injuries

The Detroit Lions’ running back Isiah Pacheco is dealing with a back injury in addition to an MCL sprain, with head coach Dan Campbell saying there is no definitive timetable for his return and that the knee is not the concern. The team recently hosted Kareem Hunt as a potential addition, underscoring the uncertainty at the backup position ahead of Week 1. If Pacheco isn’t ready, Jahmyr Gibbs could carry a heavier load, with Sione Vaki or Jacob Saylors as alternatives, while the Lions explore options behind the scenes. In addition to Pacheco’s situation, Campbell indicated ongoing questions about Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch on the Physically Unable to Perform list, and there was no clear update on Cade Mays’ wrist injury, though other injuries such as Ahmed Hassanein being not serious and Derrick Moore’s return timeline were noted. The overarching message from the updates is that Pacheco’s back issue creates significant uncertainty for the Lions’ backfield plans as they prepare for the season opener. Overall, the Lions are weighing internal options and potential acquisitions to mitigate a potential absence of Pacheco while monitoring several other players’ recoveries.