The Kansas City Chiefs released running back Larry Johnson on Monday. (Ed Zurga / Associated Press)

The Kansas City Chiefs announced Monday that they’ve decided to release troubled RB Larry Johnson, a move that will have fantasy implications.

Johnson, once the top player in fantasy football, struggled to produce this season. He averaged 2.7 yards per carry and didn’t score a touchdown in seven games before being released.

That lack of production doesn’t bode well for his replacements, RBs Jamaal Charles and Kolby Smith.

Charles got the start in Johnson’s absence against the Jaguars but finished with just six carries and 55 scrimmage yards. Of course, the Chiefs were behind for most of the contest and had to abandon the run in the second half.

A talented and versatile back, Charles has the skills to make an impact in fantasy circles (especially in PPR leagues). However, he’s not useful as more than a flex option in larger formats.

Smith, who is coming off major knee surgery, appears to be the team’s red-zone back. He was on the field when the Chiefs got inside the Jaguars’ 20-yard line and appears to be the short-yardage back in this apparent committee.

The fact that he’ll be given a chance to score makes Smith worth a look off the waiver wire. RB Dantrell Savage also saw work in the backfield, but he’s third in the pecking order.

Fantasy owners need to remember that coach Todd Haley‘s offense is a pass-heavy attack, so running backs are going to be inconsistent in the stat sheets.

But anytime a change of the guard occurs in an NFL backfield, it’s worth taking a chance on the new components in fantasy leagues.

As for Johnson, he should be released in all formats.

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