In a move that has stunned the AFC West just days before the NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos have officially signed running back Isiah Pacheco away from the division-rival Kansas City Chiefs, completing a shocking deal that will see the electric playmaker replace rookie standout Audric Estime in the Broncos’ backfield.
The signing was confirmed early Sunday by team officials, who called Pacheco a “perfect fit” for their offensive identity moving forward. The move also signals the team’s decision to pivot away from Estime, the former Notre Dame bruiser who joined Denver as a late-season addition but dealt with lingering injuries that limited his impact.
Pacheco, 24, has quickly built a reputation as one of the toughest, most explosive young running backs in the league. Known for his downhill running style, high motor, and clutch postseason performances, he played a key role in the Chiefs’ back-to-back Super Bowl appearances, including their title runs in 2022 and 2023.
Now, he’ll bring that championship experience and fiery running style to a Denver team looking to reignite its offense under head coach Sean Payton. The deal is believed to include multiple years and incentives based on performance, though financial terms have yet to be disclosed.
“Pacheco is the kind of player who sets the tone every time he touches the ball,” said a Broncos insider. “He’s going to bring toughness, speed, and a winning mindset to this locker room.”
The timing of the deal — just ahead of the NFL Draft — suggests that the Broncos are confident in Pacheco as their featured back and may now adjust their draft strategy accordingly.
For Chiefs fans, it’s a tough loss — and for the Broncos, it’s a major statement. The AFC West rivalry just got even more intense.
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