Destination Unknown: Where Will Larry Johnson End Up?

Let us state the obvious right away: the Chiefs are rebuilding right now.

The Chiefs are trying to do what every franchise has to do at some point: rebuild. Rebuilding a team usually involves getting rid of all your older players, as well as bringing in fresh legs and new faces.

With that being said, the Chiefs have a decision to make on franchise running back-Larry Johnson.

Johnson signed a big contract in August of 2007. The deal was six years, $45.05 Million. The deal included a $12.5 million signing bonus. He also has $19 million in total guarantees.

We have seen it before; a running back signs a big contract, only to be cut.

Take Shaun Alexander for example. In the offseason following his MVP year, he signed an eight year, $62 million contract.

That season he suffered numerous injuries, and when he did play, he averaged a lackluster 3.6 yards per carry, 1.5 yards less than the year before. He got his second chance, and struggled again. The next season was typically the same.

This story resembles where Larry Johnson is unbelievably.

The Chiefs have many concerns with Larry right now.

• For one, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has reserved the right to punish Johnson again if he is convicted of the two unrelated charges he is currently facing, both for simple assault.
• He has a huge contract
• His numbers are declining
  

There is one more thing that could cause the Chiefs to let go of the two time Pro Bowler—he turns 29 on November 19.

Not concerned? Sure, 29 is not old; however, this is the year running backs begin to fall.

History doesn't lie; Shaun Alexander, LT and Edgerrin James, are perfect examples of big name running backs, who hit proverbial walls of age when they were 28-30 years old.

The first part to the question is whether Larry will stay a Chief. If he does not stay a Chief, what team wants Larry's service?

In an epoch where Roger Goodell preaches character above all, who would want Larry Johnson?

Can he perform for your franchise?

Yes, he absolutely can. However, we have seen what has happened to Pacman, Chris Henry and Michael Vick. Off-the-field issues in the modern-era are more vital then ever before.

Right now, surely not many teams would need him for even his talent. The obvious franchises, who value the quote "Just Win Baby" like the Cowboys or the Raiders, are in no need for a running back.

It looks like Larry Johnsons' back to back 1,700 yard seasons are a thing of the past. Is Larry Johnson the next Shaun Alexander?

Only time will tell.

It would be a tragedy to see him end up as a free agent until next season, when a teams' depth is truly depleted, but it could happen.

Larry: prove yourself now, or there will be no more chances.