RIVER FALLS, Wis. — Kansas City has been through various incarnations of Larry Johnson.
There was workhorse Larry, injured Larry, trouble-with-the-law Larry. They’ve seen recommitted Larry, malcontent Larry, then apologetic Larry after trouble-with-the-law Larry reappeared.
Now the Chiefs are experiencing a new version: content Larry.
Well, maybe it’s not completely new. Johnson claimed to be content before last season. Turned out to be an impostor.
This time, though, Johnson, through his actions and attitude, seems to be serious.
“From the day I took the job, Larry Johnson has appeared to enjoy football and enjoy working at it, and I’m excited about it,” first-year Chiefs coach Todd Haley said. “I’ve not had an issue with Larry Johnson and what he’s done.”
Johnson was once one of the elite running backs in the game, a powerhouse who rushed for over 1,700 yards in consecutive Pro Bowl seasons. What followed was a difficult-to-watch downward spiral filled with injuries, sulky mood swings, suspensions and run-ins with the law.
It started in 2007, when Johnson was limited to eight games because of a foot injury.
That just a ripple compared to what he went through last season: A three-game suspension by the team for violating team rules. A claim by two women that he assaulted them in nightclubs. A one-game suspension from the NFL for violating the league’s player conduct policy. A reduced role in the offense. More foot problems.
The season couldn’t have gone much worse for Johnson. After it was over, Johnson told a Kansas City radio station that it was time to cut ties with the Chiefs and move on.
So long Larry, it seemed.
Then new general manager Scott Pioli was hired, followed by Haley and assistant head coach Maurice Carthon.
Just like that, everything changed.
Impressed by the new regime’s vision, Johnson became a model player, working hard in the weight room, setting an example on the field, doing everything asked of him without a word back. Away from the field, he stayed out of the news, kept his focus on the upcoming season, not the next nightclub.
“For some reason, it just clicked that way,” Johnson said. “When you have your back against the wall and things don’t always go your way, you have to reorganize your priorities and put your head down and go to work.”
It’s carried over into training camp.
Lean, quick and powerful, Johnson has been sharp through the start of camp, bursting through holes, punishing tacklers who dare try to stop him. In other words, he has looked more like the Pro Bowler than the guy who spent the past two seasons running up the backs of his offensive linemen.
Workhorse Larry, or at least a glimpse of him, seems to have returned.
“I have a tremendous respect for how he works and how he comes in prepared each and every day,” new Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel said.
The contentment, though, is in his countenance and disposition. The scowl has melted away, replaced by a determined glare on the field, smiles off it. He’s been almost happy-go-lucky at training camp, ribbing teammates and bantering with reporters.
Johnson has goals, too. He wants to set the Chiefs career rushing record — he’s 432 yards behind Priest Holmes — and wants to get the Chiefs back to the playoffs and win a Super Bowl.
This certainly appears to be a new Larry.
“I like the organization I’m in,” Johnson said. “It just feels comfortable.”
And so far, content, Larry.
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