Amid all the drama and intrigue, most of which ended with a whimper Friday when left guard Brian Waters and linebacker Mike Vrabel arrived at Chiefs minicamp, a player who seems attracted toward drama has kept the spotlight off him this offseason.

Larry Johnson has been quiet. He's been well-behaved. He has been almost invisible.

So, what's the problem?

This isn't a complaint. No, it's another indication that the Chiefs are making things right after last year's implosion. Kansas City won two games, Johnson was arrested twice, and the former Pro Bowl running back was phased out of the offense in favor of the spread. Johnson wasn't happy. That hasn't been all that unusual since LJ arrived in Kansas City six years ago, and neither has Johnson's requests to be sent elsewhere. He told reporters after the Chiefs' final game last year, and again told a radio station in February, that he wanted out of Kansas City.

Then that changed, and word crept through LJ's agent that he kind of, sort of, actually might want to hang around Kansas City to see what happened with the new regime.

We all knew that LJ would have to be on his best behavior to stick with the Chiefs when they're burying the messy reminders of the past. Johnson was a burden last year -- and a loud burden at that. But one thing has been noticeable about Johnson during offseason practices and this weekend's minicamp: He hasn't been noticeable. Other than the red socks pulled high, a Johnson trademark, the running back has blended into the background of Chiefs practices. He's not telling loud jokes like he was at training camp last year. He's not complaining about playing time or how a teammate or coach looked at him in the hallway. Nothing.

A reporter asked Johnson on Saturday if he'd participate in an interview. Johnson politely declined, same as he did a month ago. He never has seemed to enjoy speaking with the media, which is fine, but his response to past requests usually went one of two ways: Either LJ would release a profanity-laced, and often nonsensical tirade toward the reporter, or he'd just never show up in the locker room. Yes, Johnson used to hide during the media's allotted time in the locker room, in a training room or far-off corridor until the hour was up and he could get back to whatever it is he does. Now, Johnson strolls in, does his thing and walks back out. He chats with teammates and goes about his business peacefully. Heck, he even hugged a female television reporter Saturday!

Maybe Johnson is relishing that, for once, he's not the focus of all the drama. Maybe he likes it and wants to keep it that way. Or maybe it has finally sunk in that he's on his last chance in Kansas City, and he's not doing anything to sour his reputation with a new coach and new general manager.

Maybe Larry Johnson has finally grown up. It would be a good thing for LJ and the Chiefs if he keeps up the good work. More than anybody would like to admit, Johnson and the Chiefs need each other. But the Chiefs need him only if this new LJ is the one they get for the long haul.