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David Johnson will skip the Cardinals' mandatory minicamp this week. The star running back is seeking a new contract as he heads into the final year of his rookie deal set to earn a base salary of $1.88 million.

According to various reports, the two sides have reportedly been in discussions regarding a new deal, with the hopes of coming to an agreement before the start of the season.

Johnson missed all but one game of the 2017 season due to a wrist injury. He was cleared for offseason workouts earlier this spring. The 26-year-old running back sat out OTAs last week. Coach Steve Wilks refused to elaborate on why Johnson didn't participate at the time.

As NFL.com suggests, coming off an injury with no guarantees beyond this season, it's understandable why Johnson would skip workouts in hopes of getting a new contract.

Johnson -- obviously - will be a crucial component for new OC Mike McCoy's offense.

Remember, the bulk of the Cardinals' offensive plans entering 2017 were built squarely around Johnson and what he possesses in terms of a punishing running game and his abilities as an elite pass receiver. Those hopes were dashed after that season-ending wrist injury, but Johnson's wrist is healed, his strength and full range of motion having returned, and he's anxious to play again given that he doesn't even feel like he played football in 2017.

Johnson said last month he was fully healthy and was aiming for a 1,000-yard rushing and 1,000-yard receiving season.

But first, the Cards must get their dual-threat on the field, hopefully with a new contract.

It's worth noting, players under contract who skip mandatory minicamp are subject to fines of $14,070 for the first day missed, $28,150 for the second day, and $42,215 for the third day -- totaling $84,435. Those fines are often waived after the fact. We'll continue watching for more.