Ja'Marr Chase Holds Out Amid Contract Dispute

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.