June 2, 2015; Kansas City, MO; Chiefs linebacker Derrick Johnson (56) observes teammates go through individual position drills during the fourth OTA session. Credit: Teope
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Chiefs began the fourth practice of organized team activities (OTAs) Tuesday without two Pro Bowl defensive starters.
Inside linebacker Derrick Johnson, who returns from last season’s Achilles injury, was present on the practice field without his helmet, but did not participate due to inflammation in his knee.
Defensive tackle Dontari Poe participated in the stretching and warm-up period, but was observed leaving the practice field under his own power with team trainers during individual position drills.
The Chiefs chose to give Johnson “a little rest” and Poe was dealing with a back issue, a team spokesman said after Tuesday’s practice.
Johnson stayed on the field for the entire practice and observed the action.
Poe, however, never returned to the field.
MORE INJURY UPDATES
Running back Cyrus Gray (knee) missed a fourth straight OTA practice as he continues to recover from last season’s ACL injury. Gray participated in warm-up without his helmet before moving to the side to observe.
Running back Keshawn Hill missed a second straight OTA practice as he deals with a hamstring strain.
Offensive lineman Jarrod Pughsley, who missed the first three days of practice with a hamstring strain, returned to the field Tuesday.
CONTINUED ABSENCES
All-Pro outside linebacker Justin Houston, rookie cornerbacks Marcus Peters and Steven Nelson, strong safety Eric Berry (illness), quarterback Tyler Bray (knee) and tight end Demetrius Harris (foot) were not present Tuesday.
Houston has yet to sign his non-exclusive franchise tender, while Peters and Nelson fall within the NCAA quarter system.
Rookie wide receiver Chris Conley, who missed the third OTA practice to attend the NFLPA Rookie Premiere, returned to practice.
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Herbie Teope is the lead beat writer and reporter for ChiefsDigest.com. Use the contact page to reach him or find him on Twitter: @HerbieTeope.
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