Chiefs LB Drue Tranquill talks about competitive battles with Isiah Pacheco in practice

Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco is one of the hardest running backs in the NFL to bring down, and he brings that mindset to training camp, too.

Just ask Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill, who faces Pacheco daily during camp.

Tranquill spoke with reporters after practice on Sunday, discussing his practice battles with Pacheco.

“I think it does some chemicals in your body. It gives you a little more adrenaline and a little more dopamine whenever you’re chatting, and talking with somebody helps you forget how tired you are. … But man, is he a ball of energy for our team.” said Tranquill. “He does a lot for this team, and that goes on behind the scenes vocally. When you have a guy that runs as hard as he does and brings it week in and week out, it makes you puff your shoulders up a little bit and get ready for it on the defensive side. We’re thankful to have Pacheco for sure.”

Tranquill is expected to be a starter this season following the departure of linebacker Willie Gay Jr. during the offseason. He appreciates the competition from a running back of Pacheco’s caliber daily at practice.

“I’m just trying to bring him in,” said Tranquill. “I know he’s going to be low in the hole, and I gotta be able to meet him there and knock him back.”

Pacheco runs with a signature intensity, and it appears he’s providing the same positivity to the defense at training camp.