Isiah Pacheco Introduced as New Detroit Lions Running Back

Two-time Super Bowl champion brings energy and leadership to Lions' backfield

Mar. 13, 2026 at 11:24am

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New Detroit Lions running back Isiah Pacheco met the media for the first time, delivering an energetic and passionate message about why he chose Detroit, his recovery from injury, and the mentality he plans to bring to the Lions locker room. Pacheco spoke about his desire to win, set a high standard, and complement fellow running back Jahmyr Gibbs.

Why it matters

The addition of Pacheco, a two-time Super Bowl champion, adds depth and experience to the Lions' backfield as they look to build on their recent success. Pacheco's leadership and competitive drive could help elevate the entire offense.

The details

Pacheco discussed his decision to sign with the Lions, saying it was a "great opportunity" and that the "coach and the staff here, the Ford family — they believed in me and gave me the opportunity to give 110% here." He also spoke about overcoming a major injury, saying "it was definitely a major comeback and just having the mindset of winning a day every day coming into the building." Pacheco emphasized his desire to "set the standard" and bring "accountability" to the team.

  • Pacheco met with the media for his introductory press conference on March 13, 2026.

The players

Isiah Pacheco

A two-time Super Bowl champion running back who was recently signed by the Detroit Lions.

Jahmyr Gibbs

The Lions' starting running back, who Pacheco plans to complement with his speed and physicality.

Jared Goff

The Lions' quarterback, who texted Pacheco to welcome him to the team.

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What they’re saying

“It was a great opportunity. My agent and I sat down and talked about the position we were in through the run of the stretch. It's been on a wave, but knowing the mentality and the aggression I bring, finding who I'm going to play for next that could accommodate that. The coach and the staff here, the Ford family — they believed in me and gave me the opportunity to give 110% here, and I'm going to show you all that the real No. 10 is back.”

— Isiah Pacheco

“Jahmyr is a hell of a player. Hats off to him and the guys. They've been putting in work here for a couple years now. From the outside looking in, it's just a hell of a group. Whatever I can do to contribute to the team, it's going to happen. Whether it's running the ball, wherever it's at, it don't matter where I'm at on the field — cheering the guys on, bringing excitement to the team, bringing leadership and accountability.”

— Isiah Pacheco

“He said, 'Hey brother, I'm glad to have you a part of the team. I can't wait to get to work.'”

— Jared Goff, Lions Quarterback

What’s next

Pacheco will look to quickly integrate himself into the Lions' offense and build chemistry with his new teammates as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

Pacheco's addition to the Lions' backfield brings a winning pedigree, physical running style, and strong leadership qualities that could help elevate the entire offense. His desire to set a high standard and hold his teammates accountable aligns with the Lions' culture, making him an exciting new piece to watch as the team aims to build on its recent success.