In a bold move, Cincinnati Bengals star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase has staged a "hold-in" during training camp as he seeks a new contract. This new tactic has emerged as players navigate the economic consequences of holdouts under the 2020 NFL collective bargaining agreement.

Under the current agreement, teams are required to fine players not on rookie contracts for training camp absences, with fines ranging from $40,000 to $50,000 per day. The penalties also extend to preseason games, where players can face an additional fine of one week's base salary for each game missed.

Chase, who is entering his second season with the Bengals, has been absent from offseason workouts and recently missed a practice. While the team downplayed the situation, head coach Zac Taylor mentioned having a "good plan in place" for Chase. The wide receiver is under contract for two more seasons due to the team exercising his fifth-year option.

The hold-in strategy involves a player reporting to training camp but refraining from practicing or having limited participation in an effort to push for a contract renegotiation. However, fines associated with training camp attendance can be avoided. One notable example is Pittsburgh Steelers' T.J. Watt, who became the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL just days before the regular season opener after attending training camp as a spectator.

Chase is not the only wide receiver engaging in a hold-in this preseason. San Francisco 49ers' Brandon Aiyuk has also expressed displeasure with his contract situation and has requested a trade. The 49ers have given Aiyuk's representatives permission to negotiate with interested teams.

The situation with Chase has the potential to become explosive as Bengals president Mike Brown made conflicting statements about reaching a deal. Brown acknowledged Chase's importance to the team while suggesting that negotiating a contract this year is unlikely. Chase is believed to be aiming to exceed the record-breaking contract of his former LSU teammate, Justin Jefferson, who recently signed a four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings.

If the Bengals decide to take action to end Chase's hold-in, they could remind him of his contractual obligations and potentially allege a breach of the NFL Player Contract. However, Chase would risk facing penalties such as fines and a suspension without pay if he continues the hold-in.

While Chase's desire for a new contract is understandable, the Bengals will have to carefully navigate the situation to avoid any negative impacts on the team's performance. Speculation arises that Chase may exercise caution in returning from any injuries, prioritizing his long-term health over rushing back to the field. The success of the Bengals' season could be at stake, should the situation not be resolved amicably.

As the regular-season opener approaches on September 8 against the New England Patriots, it remains to be seen how the standoff between Ja'Marr Chase and the Cincinnati Bengals will unfold in the coming weeks.