Just because Chiefs running back Larry Johnson received only a one-game suspension from the NFL hardly means he is now running free and clear.

Johnson still is facing back-to-back court appearances in December and if he is found guilty in one or both cases, he will be facing a considerably longer suspension from the NFL.

Those December court cases now become the most important events of Johnson’s lost season. He now will be forced to go on the defense for a change. There is plenty to fight for.

In addition to trying to avert additional suspension, Johnson also could wind up forfeiting some or all of the remaining $5.5 million in guaranteed bonuses that were included in his contract. Johnson’s contract includes forfeiture language that is common in all player contracts.

But to further protect themselves, the Chiefs included additional specific forfeiture language in Johnson’s contract that portend to more issues ahead.

And so December’s court cases might just be the beginning of Johnson’s legal battles.

Posted in: Adam Schefter  | comments  |