Running back Larry Johnson and rookie wide receiver Dwayne Bowe were both absent at the beginning of training camp due to contract disputes. Bowe signed his contract on August 5 after being absent for one week, while Johnson agreed to his contract extension on August 21 after missing 25 days of practice. Priest Holmes arrived at camp on July 28 and was placed on the physically unable to perform list. Damon Huard and Brodie Croyle battled for the starting quarterback position, and Huard was chosen on August 25.