As expected, Kelly a no-show

We figured as much, but Brian Kelly was absent from today's session, the first of two voluntary workouts this week at One Buc Place.

We know he isn't thrilled with his contract and this is probably just his way of sending a little reminder. But there's also this: Kelly is coming off a season-ending toe surgery, and it's not clear what his physical status is.

Either way, he's doing his offseason work independently and, according to coaches, isn't expected to show up until the mandatory mini-camp next month.

That means it's likely Kelly won't be around for the next three weeks of voluntary offseason work. There are 10 actual days of volunatary practices remaining before the mandatory mini-camp, including tomorrow's workout.

Elsewhere, defensive line coach Larry Coyer says defensive end Simeon Rice is getting close to being recovered from his surgery. He's believed to be back in Arizona re-habbing but Coyer says the two have had some productive conversations lately and Coyer expects Rice to be back on board soon.