Ja'Marr Chase pleasantly surprises everyone ahead of Bengals' first practice of Week 1

For the first time in a long time, Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase is participating in a real practice.

Chase emerged from Paycor Stadium in full uniform for the team's first practice of Week 1.

Chase has been holding-in from practicing while awaiting a massive contract extension. He's the last remaining elite receiver to secure a long-term deal that will pay him near, or above the top of the market.

Last week, Chase partook in light practice sessions that involved individual drills. Head coach Zac Taylor told media members that he would participate in practice going forward.

A day later, Chase was back on the sidelines as a non-participant. He would miss Wednesday, Thursday, and Monday's sessions, which makes Wednesday's appearance all the more surprising.

To see Chase out on the field for the official first practice of game week can indicate that Chase is expecting to play Sunday against the New England Patriots . Wednesday's practice is used to install the gameplan for the week, so participating in any capacity is a good sign.

That said, Chase showing up to do individual drills last week and then missing the rest of practice for the week needs to be kept in mind. Nothing is for certain as of yet, and a deal may not come together. The latest reports indicated a push has been made to get him signed .

Showing up to start may indicate a deal is close. We'll see how the rest of the week goes.

Related: Bengals making 'some progress' as the clock ticks for a Ja'Marr Chase contract extension