Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase has intensified his contract holdout by missing his first practice of the training camp, having previously attended as a spectator. Head coach Zac Taylor labeled Chase's status as 'day-to-day' but offered no further details, fueling speculation about the urgency of Chase's contract demands. Chase, entering the final year of his rookie contract with a fifth-year option, is seeking an extension comparable to other top receivers like Justin Jefferson. The Bengals' ownership has hinted that a deal may not be likely before the season starts, citing the offseason as a better negotiation period. Chase risks daily fines for unexcused absences, adding pressure to both sides to reach an agreement. The team is set to travel to Chicago for a joint practice and a preseason game, where Chase's continued absence will be closely watched.