KANSAS CITY, Mo. - - Only a few fellow players commented on the
release of Larry Johnson during scheduled media availability in the locker room Monday.
Larry Johnson's nameplate is gone and so is the rest of his stuff inside his old locker. Getting players to talk about former number 27 is tough.
“Oh man, no comment on that," said defensive end Tyson Jackson.
Johnson came to Kansas City in 2003 as a first round draft pick from Penn State. He exploded in the 2005 and 2006 seasons making the pro-bowl twice.
Off the field Johnson ran into controversy. His disgruntled demeanor clashed with coaches and fans. In 2008 a woman accused Johnson of spitting a drink in her face at a Kansas City night club. He received two years probation. But the incident is just one of four alleged assaults involving women since he arrived in KC.
"He will be missed. He was more than just a teammate he was a friend as well. It's unfortunate what happened today," commented Kolby Smith.
Despite support from friends like fellow running back Kolby Smith, Johnson fumbled his last chance to remain a Chief. Two weeks ago after losing to San Diego, Johnson posted comments criticizing head coach Todd Haley and used gay slurs toward a fan and the following day he used a gay slur at reporters.
After a two week suspension the Chiefs decided that was the last straw.
"I mean I think if guys want to take it and use it whether it is production on the field action off the field a lot of things guys can learn from," said linebacker Mike Vrabel.
Now the rocky relationship is over; after all the highs and lows, Johnson is out.
Peter Schaffer, Larry Johnson’s Denver based agent, released a statement on the release of his client.
“At thus time Larry has a lot of emotions from happiness to disappointment to even some melancholy. Part of him wanted to stay in Kansas City and resurrect his image with the fanes and the team. Another part of him is looking forward with great anticipation to the future.”
