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Isiah Pacheco: Family, Football and Puerto Rican Pride
Isiah Pacheco is gearing up to defend the Super Bowl title with the Kansas City Chiefs, and fans can’t get enough of his incredible journey. His path to the NFL is about family, resilience, and honoring his heritage every step of the way. Winning the 2024 Super Bowl was a dream come true, and he had the unwavering support of his parents, Julio Pacheco and Felicia Cannon, who have been with him through every high and low.
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Who Are Isiah Pacheco’s Parents?
Isiah, born on March 2, 1999, grew up in Vineland, New Jersey, as the youngest of five siblings. His parents had a major influence on shaping the person he is today. His mom, Felicia Cannon, hails from Vineland and has African-American and Dominican heritage. Although she keeps a low profile, her cooking is legendary within the family. According to Isiah, nobody makes food quite like his mom. Every dish she prepared was a source of comfort and encouragement, nourishing Isiah both physically and emotionally. She has always been his biggest supporter, motivating him to pursue his dreams and have confidence in himself.
Isiah’s father, Julio Pacheco, is also from Vineland and has Puerto Rican roots. He’s not someone who seeks the spotlight, but his influence on Isiah’s life is undeniable. He ran a small business while raising his children, teaching them the importance of hard work, discipline, and humility. Isiah credits his father for instilling a relentless work ethic and a strong sense of responsibility in him. Julio showed him that success isn’t just about talent; it’s about working hard and staying humble no matter what.
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Tragedy struck the Pacheco family when Isiah lost two of his siblings. His older brother, Travoise Cannon, was killed in 2016, and his sister, Celeste Cannon, was murdered in 2017. These heartbreaking losses could have broken him, but instead, they fueled his determination. He keeps their memory alive with a mural tattoo on his right arm, alongside other symbols that represent his roots—New Jersey, Vineland High School, and Rutgers University.
Really cool moment after the game as Isiah Pacheco took it all in with his family. I’m so happy for this dude. pic.twitter.com/MMfmNsx78y
— Matt McMullen (@KCChiefs_Matt) February 13, 2023
Football has always been a massive part of Isiah’s life. He got his start playing at the Pop Warner level with the Vineland Blitz before making his mark at Vineland High School, where he showcased his skills as both a quarterback and running back. His speed, strength, and relentless determination made him stand out, and he carried that momentum with him to college at Rutgers University. Even though he faced challenges, he never lost sight of his goals, and his perseverance paid off when he reached the NFL.
Isiah isn’t just about football, he proudly represents his heritage too. His Puerto Rican and Dominican background is an essential part of who he is. At the Super Bowl media day in 2023, he spoke openly about his pride: “I will always praise my Latin roots. I love my family and where I come from.”
During the Chiefs’ Super Bowl victories, Isiah made sure to celebrate in a way that honored his roots. He was seen draped in the Puerto Rican flag, dancing and soaking in the moment with his teammates. After winning, he even stopped a live TV interview just to show off the flag. “You gotta represent,” he said. “You don’t see too many Puerto Ricans doing this thing. You always gotta represent your country.”
Kanas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco showed his Puerto Rican pride after earning his second Super Bowl title.@isiah_pachecoRB rushed for 59 yards on 18 carries. He also caught six passes for 33 yards.
@AdanManzanoA pic.twitter.com/wtBPX1SaGD
— Our Esquina (@OurEsquina) February 12, 2024
At Super Bowl 57, he wore a special helmet with the Puerto Rican flag decal on the back, a small but powerful tribute to his heritage. That helmet now sits in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. A testament to both his talent and his pride in his background.
Now, as he gears up to defend the Super Bowl title, Isiah carries with him his family’s love, his culture, and his determination.
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