The Chiefs began another week of optional team practices without two important pieces, and how Kansas City ends this week could foretell whether key players on offense and defense have a future with the team.

Pro Bowl guard Brian Waters and linebacker Mike Vrabel again skipped Monday morning's practice at team headquarters. Neither player has participated in the team's offseason drills, all of which have been optional. But Friday, the Chiefs begin a three-day, mandatory minicamp, and coach Todd Haley said Monday that he's confident he'll be missing no players come the weekend.

Another important player, running back Larry Johnson, attended and participated in Monday's session. He missed practice two weeks ago for undisclosed reasons.

Defensive lineman Glenn Dorsey, quarterback Brodie Croyle and running back Kolby Smith, all of whom are recovering from injuries, worked out on an adjoining field Monday.