by The Patriots are finding it more and more difficult to keep wide receiver Efton Chism off the 53-man roster.
During the Patriots’ last offensive drive of the first half, the undrafted rookie wide receiver bore the load, hauling in four receptions for 63 yards. Chism broke free from several tackles on a reception he made in the flat before sprinting into the end zone for his final grab, a 12-yard score.
To put the Pats up, Chism had six! Twitter: zWsWVls2E4; WBZpic
The Patriots preseason television broadcast studio was instantly thrilled by Chism’s catch.
Guys, he recently joined the football squad. Scott Zolak cried out. Four guys missed because of him. He got past two [defenders for the Vikings].
“This kid is on it, whether it’s six or seven [wide receivers],” Zolak continued.
It’s difficult to dispute [that]. Devin McCourty added his voice.
Chism had made three catches earlier in the drive, all of which went for more than ten yards. The largest of the three occurred when Chism ran for a 33-yard gain to move deep into Vikings territory after making a catch in open space off a play-action throw by Patriots quarterback Josh Dobbs. Later in the drive, Chism spun out of a tackle and dragged a Vikings defender with him, making a catch on third-and-five to convert a little gain into a first down.
With three outstanding plays, including a touchdown, Efton Chism III dominated that @Patriotsdrive!Visit @NFLPluspic.twitter.com/QJta7x4QKe to stream.
Before the half, Chism had a game-high six receptions for 71 yards thanks to those catches. In the Patriots’ very competitive wide receiver competition, where they are debating whether to keep six or seven players on the 53-man roster, it also helped him stand out.
Chism has impressed Patriots executive player of player personnel Eliot Wolf, who indicated that he has a good chance of making the squad in his halftime remarks to the Patriots TV broadcast.
When asked what he has observed from Chism, Wolf responded that it has been consistent since Day 1. He has worked so hard. He has worked hard. Every day at five in the morning, he is in there with wide receivers coach Todd Downing. Here he is reaping the rewards of his labor.
Wolf went on to say that Chism is much more powerful than people realize, emphasizing his capacity to use leverage and position his defender at the top of the zone.
Wolf remarked, “We’re thrilled about him.”
When sideline reporter Steve Burton questioned Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel about Chism, Vrabel remained composed but still gave the rookie a pat on the back.
When asked if Chism had taken him by surprise, Vrabel said firmly, “I believe everyone is here for a reason.” He has undoubtedly taken advantage of his chances. His strength as a player is evident.
Following his outstanding performance in the preseason opener, Chism had a strong first half. Last week, he caught six passes for 50 yards, including a touchdown, against the Commanders.
Chism is probably putting up the best argument to help the Patriots extend their 19-year streak of having an undrafted rookie on their 53-man roster on cutdown day to 20 years. He undoubtedly has the backing of at least one player who played a part in that run.
David Andrews, a former center for the Patriots, posted on social media, “There’s nothing that makes me happier than watching undrafted guys go out and win themselves a job in the preseason.”
Sign up for Patriots updates
During football season, receive breaking news and commentary straight to your email.
