After being a fan favorite in the 2025 preseason, rookie wide receiver Efton Chism was able to get his first opportunity in the New England Patriots‘ offense in Week 17 against the New York Jets.
Chism was at the bottom of the depth chart in the first few weeks of the 2025 season and was a healthy inactive for most games. He was able to develop a role on special teams as a kick return specialist, where he returned 16 kicks for 383 yards, but never had a solid opportunity on offense.
Due to injuries to Mack Hollins (abdomen) and Kayshon Boutte (concussion) in the Week 16 win over the Baltimore Ravens, Chism was the next man up in the position group to help the team win the AFC East.
In the preseason with New England, the former Eastern Washington wide receiver recorded 121 receiving yards and 2 touchdown catches on 12 receptions. Now getting his first real snaps on offense, Chism made the most of his opportunity.
In his limited role on the offense, the undrafted rookie was able to record his first reception and his first touchdown reception. In the game, Chism had two catches for 40 yards.
The wide receiver spoke to the media after the game and mentioned what it was like to record the first catches of his career.
Efton Chism Opens Up On Week 17
GettyEfton Chism III #86 of the New England Patriots
Entering Week 17, the Patriots were in contention to win their division and become the number one seed (barring a Denver Broncos defeat). Despite having one of the best records in the league, New England has no space to give up in the final weeks of the season and Efton Chism was one of the key players in the game.
“Super special, super surreal,” Chism said about his first career catch and touchdown reception.
“I think you always kind of dream of those moments and it happens. I’m just very blessed and thankful to be here and just have a great receiver room, quarterback, great coaches… everyone in out program. It’s special. Very thankful to be a part of it.”
Chism’s first career reception was for 30 yards, with 24 of those yards coming after the catch (which could have been more if the rookie hadn’t stumbled).
His second career catch was a 10-yard diving touchdown in the third quarter, which was the first professional touchdown reception for Chism.
The rookie was targeted just twice, but was able to leave an impression on the Patriots organization and fanbase.
Coaching Staff And Players Support Pour In
GettyNew England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel
As with any player recording their first touchdown in the NFL, Efton Chism received a bunch of support from his teammates.
Chism mentioned that Mack Hollins messaged him after the win, telling the rookie to keep working.
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel embraced the rookie after the game with a huge smile on his face, giving him a hug.
“Chism has been catching touchdowns on us on Friday [practice] the entire year,” Vrabel said after the 42-10 win over the Jets.”It was good he got one in the game, because he caught plenty of them on Fridays.”
With questions still surrounding the receiving room, Efton Chism getting some quality snaps in time for the playoffs will be a huge benefit to the offense.
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