Isiah Pacheco is a prominent American professional football running back for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League (NFL). Known for his aggressive running style and remarkable resilience, Pacheco has quickly established himself as a key player since being drafted in 2022. He earned the nickname “Pop” during his Pop Warner days, a moniker that stuck after he delivered a memorable hit on an opposing quarterback. Pacheco’s journey from Vineland, New Jersey, to becoming a two-time Super Bowl champion is a testament to his determination and ability to overcome significant personal adversities.
Isiah Pacheco Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Isiah Pacheco |
| Nickname | Pop |
| Date of Birth | March 2, 1999 |
| Age (as of August 2025) | 26 years old |
| Birthplace | Vineland, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Puerto Rican (father’s side), African-American (mother’s side), Dominican (mother’s side) |
| Parents | Felicia Cannon (mother), Julio Pacheco (father) |
| Siblings | Youngest of five siblings; lost older brother Travoise Cannon and older sister Celeste Cannon |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) |
| Weight | 216 lbs (98 kg) |
| Profession | Professional American Football Player (Running Back) |
| Team | Kansas City Chiefs |
| NFL Draft | 2022, Round 7, Pick 251 (Kansas City Chiefs) |
| College | Rutgers University |
| Net Worth (estimated as of 2025) | Over $3.8 million, with other estimates between $1 million and $3 million |
| Career Earnings (through 2025) | Approximately $3,739,108 |
| Super Bowl Wins | LVII (2023), LVIII (2024) |
Early Life and Education of Isiah Pacheco
Isiah Pacheco was born on March 2, 1999, in Vineland, New Jersey, to Felicia Cannon and Julio Pacheco. He is the youngest of five siblings. Pacheco’s heritage is rich, with his father, Julio, being of Puerto Rican descent and his mother, Felicia Cannon, having African-American and Dominican roots. This diverse background is a source of pride for Pacheco, who has notably featured the Puerto Rican flag on his helmet.
Pacheco’s childhood in Vineland saw him immersed in football from a young age, starting with Pop Warner Football for the Vineland Blitz in Cumberland County. He attended Vineland High School, where he showcased his versatility and athleticism by playing both quarterback and running back. During his senior year, he led the Vineland Fighting Clan to a dominating victory in the Thanksgiving Day Classic against rival Millville Senior High School, leaving a significant mark on his high school career. Throughout his high school tenure, he rushed for an impressive 4,269 yards and 50 touchdowns.
His time in high school was also marked by profound personal tragedies. When Pacheco was 16, his older brother, Travoise Cannon, was killed in January 2016. Just a year later, in September 2017, his older sister, Celeste Cannon, was tragically murdered. These immense losses deeply affected Pacheco, with his sister often described as his best friend and his brother as the one who initially encouraged him to play football. He credits these experiences with forging his resilience and driving his passion for the sport, often stating that he plays for them. Pacheco honors his late siblings with tattoos of them in a mural on his right arm, alongside other symbols representing his roots, including New Jersey, Vineland High School, and Rutgers University.
Despite these challenges, Pacheco excelled academically and athletically, graduating from Vineland High School in 2017 with a 3.5 GPA. He was a member of the National Honor Society, student council, and chess club, and participated in various community service projects. Heavily recruited by several East Coast football programs, including Syracuse, Maryland, Rutgers, and Virginia Tech, Pacheco ultimately committed to Rutgers University on June 21, 2017, choosing to stay close to home and represent New Jersey.
At Rutgers, Pacheco continued to display his talent over four collegiate seasons (2018-2021), seeing consistent playing time. He rushed 563 times for 2,442 yards, averaging 4.3 yards per carry, and scored 18 touchdowns. He also proved to be a reliable receiver, catching 47 passes for 249 yards and one touchdown. He was named Rutgers’ offensive MVP in 2019 and 2020, and the team MVP in 2021, earning All-Big Ten and All-American honors during his college career. Pacheco graduated from Rutgers in December 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in communication.
Isiah Pacheco’s Career
Isiah Pacheco’s professional football career began when he was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft as the 251st overall pick. Despite being a late-round pick, Pacheco quickly made an impact, endearing himself to fans with his competitive spirit and dedication.
Pacheco made his official NFL debut in Week 1 of the 2022 regular season against the Arizona Cardinals, where he scored his first NFL rushing touchdown. His breakthrough came quickly, as he earned his first start in Week 7 against the San Francisco 49ers. In Week 11, he rushed for a career-high 107 yards on 15 carries against the Los Angeles Chargers. He finished his rookie regular season with 830 rushing yards, 130 receiving yards, and five rushing touchdowns, accumulating a total of 960 scrimmage yards. Pacheco also contributed on special teams, returning 29 kickoffs for 597 yards.
A significant highlight of his rookie season was being named the starting running back for the Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII. In the Super Bowl, Pacheco played a crucial role, recording 76 rushing yards and scoring a touchdown as the Chiefs defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 38-35. This made him the starting running back for a Super Bowl-winning team in his first professional season.
In his second NFL season (2023), Pacheco continued to be a vital part of the Chiefs’ offense. He appeared in 14 games and started 13, finishing with 205 carries for 935 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns. He also added 44 receptions for 244 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns. Pacheco was instrumental in the Chiefs’ playoff run, scoring a rushing touchdown in each of the first three playoff games. His season culminated in the Chiefs winning Super Bowl LVIII against the San Francisco 49ers, making them the first team to repeat as champions since the New England Patriots in 2003 and 2004. Pacheco rushed for 59 yards and had six catches for 33 yards in that Super Bowl victory. He made history by becoming the only running back in NFL history to win two Super Bowls in his first two seasons.
Entering his fourth season with the Chiefs in 2025, Pacheco has maintained his role as a starting running back. The 2024 season saw him suffer a fractured fibula in Week 2, which led to him being placed on injured reserve on September 18, 2024. However, demonstrating his resilience, he was activated on November 28, 2024, and returned to play in the Week 13 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. He finished the 2024 season with 83 carries for 310 yards and one touchdown in seven games, and participated in Super Bowl LIX, where the Chiefs lost to the Eagles. His overall career stats through the end of the 2024 NFL regular season include 2,075 rushing yards, 13 rushing touchdowns, 69 catches, and 453 receiving yards.
Isiah Pacheco Personal Life & Family
Isiah Pacheco’s personal life is deeply rooted in his family, who have been a constant source of support and motivation throughout his journey. He was born to Felicia Cannon and Julio Pacheco and is the youngest of five siblings. The Pacheco family, residing in Vineland, New Jersey, have always been supportive of Isiah’s football career.
A defining aspect of Pacheco’s personal life is the profound tragedy he endured with the loss of two older siblings. His brother, Travoise Cannon, was killed in January 2016 when Pacheco was 16. Just 20 months later, in September 2017, his sister, Celeste Cannon, was murdered. These events had a deep impact on him; he considered Celeste his best friend and Travoise the one who encouraged him to play football. Pacheco’s drive and aggressive playing style are often attributed to these losses, as he stated, “I play football for them”. He honors their memory with tattoos on his right arm, which serve as a constant reminder of his roots and his lost siblings.
Following Celeste’s death, Isiah developed an even closer bond with his mother, Felicia, and frequently checks in on his nephew, Donald Scurry III (Celeste’s son). Pacheco actively participates in his nephew’s life, taking him to football games and stepping up as a significant male figure, acknowledging that “He really doesn’t have parents. His father is in jail. I have to be there for him, get him into sports”.
Pacheco is a devout Christian, often praying before and after games, and credits his faith for helping him overcome life’s hardships. He also endeavors to spread the gospel and inspire others through his testimony. While there is public interest in his relationships, current credible sources do not confirm any specific girlfriend or wife, keeping his personal romantic life private.
His humble beginnings and the adversities he faced have instilled in him a grounded perspective, where he values family and community involvement above all else. This is reflected in his commitment to his hometown and his consistent efforts to represent his roots.
Awards and Achievements of Isiah Pacheco
Isiah Pacheco has quickly amassed a notable collection of awards and achievements in his young NFL career, solidifying his reputation as a dynamic and impactful player.
Super Bowl LVII Champion (2023): As a rookie, Pacheco was the starting running back for the Kansas City Chiefs when they defeated the Philadelphia Eagles, scoring a touchdown in the game.
Super Bowl LVIII Champion (2024): Pacheco played a key role in the Chiefs’ victory over the San Francisco 49ers, contributing to their historic back-to-back Super Bowl wins. He made history as the only running back in NFL history to win two Super Bowls in his first two seasons.
Mack Lee Hill Award (2022): Voted by his teammates as the best rookie on the Kansas City Chiefs, this award recognizes his immediate impact and contribution to the team.
Three Straight AFC Championships (2023, 2024, 2025): Pacheco has been a key player on Chiefs teams that have won three consecutive AFC Championships.
Rutgers Offensive MVP (2019, 2020): Recognized for his outstanding performance during his collegiate career at Rutgers University.
Rutgers Team MVP (2021): Awarded for his overall value and leadership to the Rutgers Scarlet Knights football team.
All-Big Ten Honors (2019, 2020): Achieved recognition within the Big Ten Conference for his strong play.
All-American Honors (2021): A significant collegiate honor acknowledging him as one of the top players nationally.
NFL Hall of Fame (Helmet with Puerto Rican flag): His helmet from Super Bowl LVII, featuring the Puerto Rican flag, was inducted into the Hall of Fame as of February 2025, a testament to his cultural pride and on-field success.
Nominee for Angry Runs Scepter: He has been nominated for this weekly award by Kyle Brandt of Good Morning Football, recognizing his aggressive and powerful running style.
Isiah Pacheco Net Worth and Income
As of 2025, Isiah Pacheco’s net worth is estimated to be over $3.8 million, with other reliable reports placing it between $1 million and $3 million and steadily climbing. His financial success primarily stems from his professional football career and has seen significant growth in his early years in the NFL.
Pacheco’s main source of income is his lucrative NFL contract with the Kansas City Chiefs. He signed a four-year rookie deal in 2022 valued at just under $3.74 million, which includes a $79,108 signing bonus. In 2025, he is set to earn a base salary of $1,100,000. His total career earnings through 2025 are approximately $3,739,108. This contract is considered a “bargain” for the Chiefs given his significant impact on the team.
Beyond his NFL salary, Pacheco has begun to diversify his income streams. While some reports in early 2024 indicated he had not yet secured major endorsement deals, updated information from late 2024 and early 2025 suggests he has since partnered with brands such as Nike and Pepsi. These endorsements contribute substantially to his growing wealth. Additionally, Pacheco has reportedly made wise investments in real estate and stocks. He has also ventured into entrepreneurial endeavors, including his own clothing line, “Threadz by Isiah,” further expanding his financial portfolio and offering prospects for future growth.
There is already speculation about a significant contract extension for Pacheco, with some reports suggesting he could command a four-year, $48 million deal, which would place him among the top-paid running backs in the league. His exceptional talent and contributions to the Chiefs make such a lucrative extension a strong possibility, further solidifying his financial future.
Legacy and Influence
Isiah Pacheco has rapidly begun to carve out a legacy as one of the most resilient and impactful running backs in the NFL, particularly given his late-round draft status. His journey from being the 251st overall pick to a two-time Super Bowl champion in his first two seasons is a remarkable testament to his perseverance and work ethic. This achievement has already cemented his place in NFL history as the only running back to accomplish this feat.
Pacheco’s influence extends beyond his on-field performance. His personal story of overcoming profound family tragedies, including the murders of his brother and sister, resonates deeply with fans and serves as a powerful source of inspiration. He openly shares how these losses fuel his drive and dedication, using his platform to honor their memory and demonstrate extraordinary mental toughness. This narrative of resilience in the face of immense adversity has garnered him respect and admiration, often making him a player even opposing fans have a soft spot for.
As a proud individual of Puerto Rican, African-American, and Dominican descent, Pacheco embraces his heritage, notably displaying the Puerto Rican flag on his Super Bowl LVII helmet, which is now in the Hall of Fame. This act symbolizes cultural pride and representation, particularly for the Hispanic community in the NFL.
His public image is characterized by a calm yet focused mindset and an unrelenting, aggressive running style on the field. Off the field, he is seen as grounded, valuing family and community involvement. He is a devout Christian who credits his faith for helping him navigate life’s challenges and aims to inspire others with his testimony. Pacheco’s commitment to supporting his nephew, Celeste’s son, further highlights his dedication to family and his desire to provide positive guidance.
Looking ahead, Pacheco’s consistent performance and his role in the Chiefs’ recent dynastic success suggest a lasting impact on the team and the league. His story serves as a motivational example of what can be achieved through unwavering determination, even when facing significant obstacles and starting from an underdog position.
Interesting Facts about Isiah Pacheco
The Nickname “Pop”: Isiah Pacheco earned his distinctive nickname “Pop” during his Pop Warner football days. The name originated after he delivered such a powerful hit on an opposing quarterback that his brother yelled “Pop!”.
Family Tragedies as Motivation: Pacheco lost his older brother, Travoise Cannon, in 2016 and his older sister, Celeste Cannon, in 2017 to violence. He openly states that these losses deeply fuel his performance on the field, and he plays to honor their memory.
Tributes in Ink: To keep his lost siblings close, Pacheco has tattoos of his brother and sister as part of a mural on his right arm, which also includes symbols representing his New Jersey roots, Vineland High School, and Rutgers University.
Immediate Impact as a Rookie: Despite being the 251st pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Pacheco quickly became the starting running back for the Kansas City Chiefs and scored a touchdown in Super Bowl LVII, a rare feat for a seventh-round rookie.
Historic Super Bowl Wins: Pacheco holds the unique distinction of being the only running back in NFL history to win two Super Bowls in his first two professional seasons (Super Bowl LVII and LVIII).
Puerto Rican Pride: Pacheco proudly represents his Puerto Rican heritage, notably wearing the Puerto Rican flag on his helmet during Super Bowl LVII, which has since been inducted into the Hall of Fame.
High School Versatility: In high school at Vineland, New Jersey, Pacheco was a dual-threat athlete, playing both quarterback and running back.
Academic Achiever: Beyond his athletic prowess, Pacheco was also a strong student, graduating from Vineland High School with a 3.5 GPA and being a member of the National Honor Society. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communication from Rutgers University.
Religious Faith: Pacheco is a devout Christian who often prays before and after games, crediting his faith with helping him overcome life’s challenges and inspiring others.
Controversies
Isiah Pacheco’s public profile has largely been free of significant controversies. His journey has been more defined by his personal resilience in overcoming tragic family losses rather than any negative public incidents.
The most notable challenges in his life have been the profound personal tragedies he faced, including the murders of his older brother, Travoise Cannon, in January 2016 and his older sister, Celeste Cannon, in September 2017. While these events are deeply tragic, they are personal adversities he has publicly faced and used as motivation, rather than controversies stemming from his own actions.
On the field, Pacheco is known for his aggressive and physical running style, which sometimes leads to impactful collisions. However, this is inherent to his playing style and generally regarded as a positive attribute by coaches and fans, not a source of controversy. He has sustained injuries, such as a fractured fibula in Week 2 of the 2024 season, which led to a stint on injured reserve. Prior to his professional career, during the offseason after his rookie Super Bowl, he underwent operations to repair a torn labrum and broken hand, injuries he had played through. These are common aspects of a professional football career and not considered controversies.
As of August 2025, there are no widespread, unverified, or outdated reports of scandals, legal issues, or significant public disputes involving Isiah Pacheco that would constitute “controversies” in a biographical context. His career has been marked by dedication, hard work, and a focus on his sport and family.
Social Media Presence
Isiah Pacheco actively maintains a presence on popular social media platforms, connecting with fans and sharing insights into his professional and personal life.
Instagram: His official Instagram account, `@lil_poppy856`, has a significant following, exceeding 650,000 followers. He frequently posts updates related to his football career, training, and glimpses into his personal life.
Twitter/X: While a specific follower count for Twitter/X is not universally available across all sources, Pacheco engages on the platform to share news and interact with the football community.
YouTube: Pacheco’s highlights, interviews, and features often appear on YouTube channels related to the NFL, Kansas City Chiefs, and sports media, contributing to his online visibility.
Pacheco uses his social media platforms to engage with his fanbase, promote his team, and occasionally share motivational messages, often reflecting his resilient spirit and pride in his heritage.
Final Words about Isiah Pacheco
Isiah Pacheco stands as a testament to perseverance and unwavering determination in the competitive world of professional football. From a late-round draft pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, he has rapidly ascended to become a foundational player for the Kansas City Chiefs, embodying the spirit of an underdog turned champion. His instrumental role in the Chiefs’ back-to-back Super Bowl victories (LVII and LVIII) has already etched his name into NFL history, a remarkable achievement for any player, let alone one in their first two seasons.
Pacheco’s current status (as of August 2025) sees him firmly established as the starting running back for one of the NFL’s most successful franchises, continuing to contribute significantly to their offensive prowess. His ability to overcome severe personal tragedies early in life, transforming immense grief into a powerful driving force on the field, has resonated deeply with audiences and cemented his public image as a mentally tough and inspiring athlete.
His legacy is being built not only on his impressive statistics and Super Bowl rings but also on his compelling personal story and his commitment to his family and roots. As he continues his career, future plans likely involve seeking a significant contract extension with the Chiefs, reflecting his value to the team and his status as one of the league’s most exciting young running backs. With his powerful running style, resilience, and increasing influence both on and off the field, Isiah Pacheco is poised for a long and impactful career, leaving an indelible mark on the NFL and inspiring countless fans along the way.
