SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Terrell Owens was a no-show Monday when the San Francisco 49ers began a four-day mini-camp at team headquarters, meaning the All-Pro receiver has failed to attend each of the team's past three mini-camps.

Owens attended San Francisco's first spring mini-camp in early May, but was limited by a lingering groin injury and did not participate in team drills.

Coach Dennis Erickson, who spoke with Owens before the current camp began, said the receiver did not give a reason for his absence. Erickson also downplayed the fact that Owens was the only veteran on the roster not in attendance.

"It's a volunteer camp and he chose not to come,'' Erickson said. "That's his prerogative. I would have liked to have him here. But that's how it goes. That's his choice.''

Owens, who led the NFL with 13 touchdowns receiving last season and has made the last three Pro Bowls, was held out of the final two games of the 2002 regular season to rest a groin problem that has persisted into this spring.

He is in the final year of his contract with the 49ers and can become a free agent in 2004. The 49ers hope to sign him to a new deal before the regular season begins.

"Of course, we'd prefer that he be here,'' 49ers general manager Terry Donahue said. "That's logic. But it's not mandatory and it's not that critical. He's an All-Pro player and he knows what he's doing. It's not something we're going to get worked up about.''

The absence of Owens at team workouts the past month has allowed more time for youngsters such as Cedrick Wilson and rookie draft picks Brandon Lloyd and Arnaz Battle to participate in team drills during practice. Those three are attempting to establish themselves in the receiving rotation behind starters Owens and Tai Streets.

Niners quarterback, Jeff Garcia, seemed to take Owens' absence in stride.

"This is a team game, and it would be great to have (Owens) out there working out with the team,'' Garcia said. "I don't know what his schedule's like right now, so I can't really speak for T.O., but he's missed in certain ways.''