Chiefs Suspend Johnson Two Weeks
By: SCUBA
After an
investigation into the Larry Johnson 'gay slur' incident(s), the Chiefs
organization issued a two week suspension to the troubled running back.
According to the Kansas City Star, Johnson was issued this suspension from the team based on "conduct detrimental to the team".
Johnson's suspension will leave him banned from all team functions
until Nov. 9, which is the day after the week 9 game against
Jacksonville. With the bye week this week Johnson will really only
miss 1 game. However, the league could easily add onto the two weeks
suspension granted by the Chiefs.
The NFL commissioner Roger Goodell (the no-nonsense commissioner)
could easily look into this situation and add onto his suspension.
The league might just see the "conduct detrimental to the team" as more
than just an incident, but more of a trend of crude behavior (see
Pacman Jones). It is probable for Johnson to be suspended for an
additional number of games, possibly even the rest of the season.
Johnson's agent will appeal this suspension. If the suspension
sticks this will be the second straight season of Johnson being
suspended mid-season for ridiculous behavior off the field.
So, what does that leave for the Chiefs? For one, it leaves
possibly the most well-timed bye week of all time. The Chiefs enter
the bye week 1-6 coming of a horrendous loss to the division rival
Chargers 37-7 at home.
There is zero doubt the Chiefs have much to work on including; the
offensive line, finding a suitable nose tackle, Derrick Johnson, the
passing game, the defense, and the new running game. Yep, that just
about covers it.
The question is will Jamaal Charles get his chance at the majority
of carries? Well, if Wednesday's practice was a sign of their
intention, then the answer is no.
Kolby Smith is back-in-action and he split carries with Charles
Wednesday with the first team. Todd Haley has expressed an almost
'excitement' with seeing Smith back in pads.
It seems that Jamaal Charles will most likely get the start but his
role as starter will be diminished somewhat with a healthy Smith also
in the backfield. Fans and fantasy owners everywhere want to see
Charles have a chance at the feature back, but Charles' fumble problems
tell coach Haley otherwise.