Isiah Pacheco Shares Touching Story of Family Loss

Kansas City, MO – May 31, 2025 – Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco, known for his explosive runs and relentless energy, opened up during OTAs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium about the profound impact his family, particularly his father, Felton Pacheco, had on his journey to NFL stardom. In an emotional interview, Pacheco shared how his parents held their family together through unimaginable loss, fueling his drive to honor them on the field.

Growing up in Vineland, New Jersey, Pacheco faced heartbreak early. In 2016, his older brother, Travoise, was fatally stabbed, and in 2017, his sister, Celeste, was murdered. The tragedies rocked the Pacheco family, leaving Felton and Lisa Pacheco to raise Isiah and his remaining siblings amid grief. “My dad worked endless hours to keep us fed, to keep us going,” Pacheco said. “He and my mom showed me what it means to fight through pain. Everything I do is for them and my brother and sister watching from above.”

Felton, a construction worker, and Lisa, a pillar of emotional strength, instilled in Isiah the values of perseverance and humility. “My dad always said, ‘Run hard, but stay humble,’” Pacheco recalled. Despite financial struggles, Felton never missed Isiah’s games, cheering from the stands as his son rose from a Vineland High star to a standout at Rutgers. That support carried Pacheco to Kansas City, where he was drafted in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft and became a key piece of the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LVII and LVIII victories.

Pacheco’s grit was on display during OTA drills, where he broke off a 40-yard run, drawing roars from teammates. Off the field, his story resonated with Chiefs Kingdom. One fan on X wrote, “Pop’s heart comes from his family’s strength—Isiah’s a warrior!” Another posted, “His parents are heroes. No wonder he plays with that fire.” Pacheco’s openness has deepened his bond with Kansas City, a city that cherishes heart and hustle.

With the Chiefs’ season opener against the Baltimore Ravens set for September 5, Pacheco’s story highlights the personal stakes behind his relentless style. Felton and Lisa, now regular fixtures at Arrowhead, beam with pride watching their son. “Seeing my parents in the stands, knowing what we’ve been through—it’s my fuel,” Pacheco said. As Kansas City aims for another Super Bowl, Pacheco’s tale of family resilience adds a powerful chapter to the Chiefs’ storied legacy.