Dwayne Bowe Has Significant Work Ahead Of Him When He Rejoins Chiefs Roster

There's no question that, at some point, Dwayne Bowe is going to have to report to the Kansas City Chiefs. It could come as soon as this week with the preseason opener looming for the Chiefs against the Arizona Cardinals. It could come before the first regular season week against the Atlanta Falcons. It could also come in week 10, the final week that Bowe could report to KC before losing any leverage for a future contract. The only given is that, at some point, he will report, and when he does, it will be an uphill climb no matter when he comes back.

Bowe is apparently waging a silent war with the team, and while the media has been cut off, the Chiefs front office has to be aware of what Bowe's issues are. If he's upset about being franchised, then he must show up before the aforementioned deadline or he cannot play in 2012. Even then he will have lost a prorated amount of an incredible $9.5 million, so there's plenty to report for, even if it's just about the money.

The Chiefs are adjusting to a new offense under Brian Daboll, so Bowe is automatically going to have to adjust to the schemes and playbook. The Chiefs also have some new faces, including right tackle Eric Winston, running back Peyton Hillis and tight end Kevin Boss. Even then, there's a major difference between staying in shape and being game-ready for the NFL.

"I don't know what kind of communication he's had," said Winston when asked about Bowe's absence at training camp on Tuesday. "Obviously he's doing what he thinks is necessary and what he thinks is right. That's his business. At some point, unfortunately, this is a business, and everybody has to handle his dealings the same way.

"But I'm definitely not going to tell him that he's doing the wrong thing or the right thing. He's got to judge the situation for himself and understand what the pros and cons are of not being here, and he's got to make his own decision."

Winston went on to say that he'll welcome his teammate but that Bowe does have an uphill climb.

"Obviously, when he gets here, if he gets here, we're going to welcome him with open arms," said Winston. "He's going to have to speed up and he's going to have to perform to get out there."

Steve Breaston didn't sound too concerned when asked about Bowe's absence. While other receivers are also stepping up, a la Jon Baldwin, Breaston also noted the big play nature that Bowe brings on the field as evidence enough.

"Regardless of he's here or not, he is a playmaker. When he gets back he is going to make plays. The biggest thing with the guys here is to prepare and be accountable."

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