October 14, 2012; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Daniel Te

Kansas City Star Chiefs beat writer Adam Teicher is reporting that Andy Reid expects Branden Albertwill be on hand next week for the Chiefs mini-camp. As a result, top overall pick Eric Fisher spent his time at right tackle Friday at Chiefs rookie camp.

To some degree this should not be surprising. Albert has signed his franchise tender for next season and the possibility of a trade appears to have faded. There was some possibility Albert could hold out in an effort to force a contract extension but that tactic appears to have been shelved for now.

Albert’s decision to show up to mini-camp may signal progress in a potential long-term deal. Albert has shown on twitter and other social media outlets that he is prone to emotional outbursts, and his decision to attend camp may signal that he is happier now than he was a month ago with the language coming from John Dorsey and Andy Reid.

On the other hand, Albert may be attending the mini-camp so as not to lose money in either a potential contract or a fine. Signing the franchise tender requires Albert to show up to mini-camp, which is mandatory for all players under contract. The decision to show up may be about not losing money than it is that he is happy with the way negotiations are going.

The good news is Albert will be in the facility and may be available for questions. So in a week we will hopefully know more about the progress towards a contract and finally move past this story.