Posted on Sun, Nov. 01, 2009

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Johnson will only lose one paycheck

By Kent Babb

Kansas City Star

KANSAS CITY, Mo. —Larry Johnson recouped some money Saturday, but his "settlement" with the Chiefs didn't answer questions about his long-term job security with the team.

Johnson's agent, Peter Schaffer, told The Kansas City Star on Saturday night that his client and the Chiefs had agreed in principle that Johnson would remain suspended for two weeks but that he would be paid for one of those weeks.

The original suspension, which was handed down by the team Wednesday night, would have cost Johnson more than $600,000. Now it will cost him about half that, and it will keep the sides out of a grievance hearing next week.

"We have nothing signed," Schaffer said. "I don't think anybody is going to go back on their word.

"We've got an agreement that, in my mind, is a positive resolution that allowed all sides to move forward."

The Chiefs have refused to discuss Johnson or his situation, referring reporters to a statement issued Wednesday, when the suspension was announced for "conduct detrimental to the team." Johnson made disparaging comments Sunday night about coach Todd Haley's lack of football playing experience. Johnson later used a gay slur in reference to one of his Twitter followers, and he directed another gay slur toward reporters a day later in the Chiefs locker room.

Schaffer said the agreement with the Chiefs was a step toward a peaceful resolution, but he stopped short of saying Johnson would play again for the team in 2009 or beyond. Johnson is signed through 2012, but the Chiefs could decide to distance themselves from Johnson after weighing his ineffectiveness this season — he has averaged 2.7 yards per carry in seven games — and his latest messy episode.

Schaffer said he didn't know what the Chiefs' plans are and that he and general manager Scott Pioli discussed nothing this week beyond an agreement to keep the sides out of arbitration.

"His plan right now is to play for the Chiefs," Schaffer said of Johnson. "That's his plan. That's how he has to prepare."

Johnson's suspension is set to expire after next Sunday's game at Jacksonville, and he could ostensibly rejoin his team Nov. 9. Schaffer wouldn't discuss whether he or Johnson thought his client would face further punishment by the team or the league.

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