At this point, it seems fairly clear that Larry Johnson has sustained a relatively serious foot injury. Most reports only go as far as saying he'll miss at least one game, while more aggressive sources are suggesting he's done for the season. Those of us who own Johnson in fantasy leagues have no choice but to assume the worst.

Priest Holmes, of early millenium fame, may or may not be available. Obviously, given his track record -- he is the Chiefs' all-time leading rusher -- Holmes will get the first crack at replacing Johnson. But head coach Herm Edwards has already made little secret that Holmes, after years away from the game, isn't exactly ready to handle a full load.

Enter Kolby Smith, a rookie fifth-rounder who has good size and turned some heads in the preseason, rushing 20 times for 70 yards and catching three passes for 25 yards. Edwards didn't hesitate to mention that Smith would share the load with Holmes, and those who don't have a chance at Holmes should act accordingly.

There are two things to consider here. First, Holmes is far from a sure thing to stay healthy. He'll almost certainly be over-extended, and he was starting to break down back in 2005. Second, things in K.C. could unravel quickly without L.J., and Smith could get an extended look down the stretch.

Look, this isn't the KC offense of years past; they don't have the Hall of Fame offensive line that paved the way for Holmes and Johnson to become top-five fantasy picks. However, as we've learned from Earnest Graham, Derrick Ward, Ron Dayne and Kenny Watson, a back getting carries is a back worth owning.