Dont’e Thornton Jr. cannot afford to remain a spectator much longer.

The Raiders receiver missed practice for the fourth consecutive time Wednesday, according to ESPN’s Ryan McFadden, extending an absence that began after he left a session early last week. No diagnosis or return timetable accompanied the latest report.

The timing threatens more than Thornton’s availability for Thursday’s preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals. Every missed rep allows Las Vegas’ crowded receiver competition to move forward without him.

Thornton entered camp attempting to secure a larger role after catching just 10 of 30 targets for 135 yards as a rookie. His 6-foot-5 frame and 4.3 speed give him a rare physical profile, but those traits did not translate into consistent production during his first season.

They have not separated him from the competition this summer, either.

Before the absence, Thornton reportedly struggled to create separation against reserve cornerbacks during one-on-one drills. Rookie sixth-rounder Malik Benson, meanwhile, has earned first-team opportunities and supplied another vertical threat with considerably more special-teams value.

That development has altered a Raiders receiver competition that previously appeared deadlocked.

Las Vegas’ first unofficial depth chart lists Jalen Nailor, Jack Bech and Tre Tucker as its three starting receivers. Depth charts released before the preseason are fluid, but Thornton’s exclusion from the first group reflects a summer in which others have gained ground.

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General manager John Spytek expressed confidence in Thornton before camp, and his draft investment and athletic upside should prevent four missed practices from deciding his future. His path to meaningful snaps, however, is narrowing.

Thornton also lacks an established special-teams role, making his offensive production particularly important. Benson can return punts, while Bech offers more reliable hands and underneath route-running.

Thursday would have provided Thornton an important opportunity with rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza expected to receive extensive preseason playing time. His availability for that game remains uncertain.

Thornton is not necessarily fighting for his roster spot yet. He is fighting to avoid becoming an afterthought—and four consecutive absences have pushed him closer to that possibility.