Mequon, WI (Best E Casino) - The St. Louis Rams opened their training camp Friday morning without running back Steven Jackson, who is holding out for a contract extension.

A story on the team's Web site Friday said that the Rams and Jackson's agent, Eugene Parker, are working on a long-term extension, and that the running back had been expected at camp on time.

The Rams opened camp with a morning meeting Friday, however, and Jackson was not present.

The 25-year-old is entering his fifth season in the league, all spent in St. Louis, where he rushed for 1,002 yards on 237 carries with five scores and had 38 catches for 271 yards and a touchdown in 12 games last season.

The Oregon State product earned a spot in the Pro Bowl in 2006, after rushing for 1,528 yards and 13 touchdowns, and adding 806 yards on 90 receptions with three more scores.

The Rams were also without the services of wide receiver Donnie Avery on Friday. Avery is a second-round pick out of Houston who has yet to agree to a deal with the club.