What happens to a player's status if he does not report to training camp on time due to a holdout?

A player who does not report to training camp on time due to a holdout typically remains on the team's roster for several reasons. The player's contract is still in effect, and unless he is formally released or traded by the team, he retains his contractual obligations, including being listed on the roster. A holdout is often a negotiation tactic used by players seeking to secure a better contract or terms. Thus, even if a player is not present at training camp, he remains a part of the team as far as his contractual status is concerned.

In contrast, a player becoming a free agent would imply that he has severed ties with the team, which does not happen automatically due to a holdout. Salary reduction is also not a direct consequence of a holdout; players might face financial penalties or missed game checks, but generally, their base salary remains intact until further action is taken. Lastly, remaining eligible for benefits typically depends on maintaining the status of being on the roster, so a player on holdout status would still be entitled to benefits unless otherwise stated in his contract or unless the team takes specific actions that would alter that status.