Campbell provided a few new injury updates prior to the team's final training camp practice on Thursday, and unfortunately, it's not all
good news. Primarily, Campbell broke news that backup running back Isiah Pacheco is dealing with a new back injury, and his timeline for a return is unclear. "I can't give you anything definitive," Campbell said. "He is feeling better as of yesterday, you know. It's been a little touch-and-go right now. He's had a little bit of a back (injury), and we're hoping he's coming out of this as of yesterday." The good news is that Campbell said they weren't concerned about the knee injury that initially kept Pacheco out of practice for a little over two weeks. If Pacheco isn't ready for the regular season, the Lions may have to rely upon Sione Vaki or Jacob Saylors to be their primary backup behind Jahmyr Gibbs. Detroit also recently hosted Kareem Hunt for a visit.
Matt Derrick·
Demercado's physicality gives him a different role than some of Kansas City's younger backs. He's a strong short-yardage runner who can break tackles, and his style fits well alongside Kenneth Walker as one of the more physical options in the room. He was specifically viewed as someone who could fill the type of role Kareem Hunt previously handled. Demercado also has an advantage in passing situations because he can handle blocking responsibilities. Kansas City was viewed as having two established third-down options in Walker and Demercado because both can be trusted in protection. That's significant when comparing his immediate role with Emmett Johnson, whose pass protection remains a work in progress.
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