Jenkins was one of only two players -- and the lone starter -- who missed the first day of three weeks of practices. While the sessions are voluntary, players usually attend.

"Do we wish he was here? Sure," Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said. "It's a voluntary session and he chose not to be here. It's all we can do."

The Panthers dangled Jenkins as trade bait before the NFL draft. But they couldn't work out a deal, and Hurney and coach John Fox said they expected Jenkins to be with the team next season.

Jenkins' agent, Tony Paige, did not immediately return a call Wednesday seeking comment.

Jenkins did show up at a mandatory minicamp a week after the draft. While he appeared to weigh much more than his listed 335 pounds, he claimed no ill will toward the Panthers.

Carolina has been concerned about Jenkins' weight. He did not attend voluntary conditioning sessions earlier this year, forfeiting a $175,000 bonus.

"We expect him to come into training camp in shape, if he doesn't come in before that," Hurney said.

Fox deflected questions about Jenkins today, but said he anticipates he'll show up to training camp in July.

"I'm not upset about it because it's something we can't control," Fox said.

The 6-foot-4 Jenkins was Carolina's second-round pick in 2001. He quickly developed into one of the NFL's top defensive tackles, making the Pro Bowl in 2002 and '03.

Jenkins missed all but five games the next two seasons with shoulder and knee injuries. While he was sidelined, Jenkins' weight soared and he acknowledged he became depressed and drank too much.

Jenkins returned last season and was a surprise pick for the Pro Bowl, although he wasn't as dominating as early in his career.

Damione Lewis worked in Jenkins' spot with the first team today.