I tried to search the forum to find related posts but didn't find anything. If there is something, please direct me.

I am flying STL-DFW (AA #1329)and then DFW-TPA (AA #304)on Thursday. I booked the flight January 7 and requested upgrades at that time. (I became EXP for the first time a few days before booking the flight.) The upgrades have not come through. Seat maps (which I know may not be reliable) show available seats in F.

My question is will my chances of getting the upgrade change if I check in online when the 24 hour window opens up for checkin? If I do that does my name stay on the upgrade list?

Thanks for any help on understanding the upgrade process.