Coach Herm Edwards refused to specify what team rules the two-time Pro Bowler broke. But Edwards did say his decision had nothing to do with the charge of simple assault filed against Johnson this week.

Johnson, 28, has rushed for 417 yards and three touchdowns as the rookie-laden Chiefs try to find their way through the first season of a top-to-bottom rebuilding project. Against Denver on Sept. 28, the only victory the Chiefs have in five games, he gained 198 yards. The Titans have been giving up only 95.8 yards rushing per game.

"Any time you're missing a good player ... I think it always hurts you," Edwards said. "But you see other players elevate their game, too."

Johnson was not in the locker room Thursday when reporters were admitted. His representative did not return a phone message left by The Associated Press.

Kolby Smith, who had 407 yards on 112 carries last year when Johnson missed the last eight games with a foot injury, will probably start. Also certain to see plenty of action will be rookie Jamaal Charles, a third-round pick out of Texas who has carried 21 times for 98 yards.

"I'm not going to give out the plan of what we're trying to do," Edwards said. "They (Tennessee) are good enough without knowing what we're trying to do. Now they know Larry's not playing. That's already a bit of a disadvantage. But that's OK."

A 26-year-old woman accused Johnson of pushing the side of her head with an open hand at the Grand Emporium Saloon on Feb. 24, telling her "don't touch me" as he made his way through the club. He has a court date in December.

Kansas City Chiefs News News » Chiefs' Johnson won't play vs. Titans
Chiefs' Johnson won't play vs. Titans
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - Running back Larry Johnson will miss the Kansas City Chiefs' game against the Tennessee Titans for violating team rules, a potentially crippling blow for a struggling young offense facing the NFL's last unbeaten team. NFL Blitz Can't get enough NFL? We've got everything you need for Week 7. Check out the NFL Blitz, where we count down all the games from the worst to the best.