There have been many big headlines coming out of the New England Patriots' OTAs early in 2025. Whether it's the dramatic following of Stefon Diggs and his activities on and off the field, or the emotional celebration of Patriots' legend David Andrews' retirement, amid all that, this undrafted rookie has impressed in OTAs, according to Pats Pulpit and others.
Efton Chism III spent five seasons at Eastern Washington University before signing with the Patriots as an undrafted free agent following the 2025 NFL Draft.
During Monday's OTA, Chism caught seven passes on his seven targets. With Kendrick Bourne absent from OTAs, Chism has had the opportunity for more reps, and he's taking advantage.
Chism caught passes from all three quarterbacks today, including one from Drake Maye on a dig route against Christian Gonzalez.
As everyone is aware by now, Diggs arrived at the Patriots' OTAs today. But I bring it up because Chism got a chance to work in the slot with Diggs on Monday. It appears after a drill, Diggs flipped the ball to Chism and tapped him on the helmet, as to say, "Good job."
Although Chism went undrafted, for those who watched him play throughout college, it's no surprise that he's performing well early in OTAs.
Chism was a standout at Eastern Washington. The 5-foot-11, 200-pound receiver collected 3,852 yards and 37 touchdowns in college. In his senior year, Chism caught 120 passes for 1,311 yards and 13 touchdowns.
New England Patriots wide receiver Efton Chism III (86) practices during rookie camp at Gillette Stadium.
New England Patriots wide receiver Efton Chism III (86) practices during rookie camp at Gillette Stadium.
Eric Canha-Imagn Images
He earned All-Big Sky First Team, AP All-American First Team, Phil Steele FCS All-American First Team, and AFCA All-American First Team honors. Chism broke the school record for receptions in a season and ranked No. 2 in total receptions. He set the FCS record for most consecutive games with a reception at 53.
ESPN NFL Nation's reporter Mike Reiss posted on X, "Chism has a combination of quickness and sudden change of direction that could fit well based on what we have previously seen from Josh McDaniels’ offense in the slot."
It's awfully early for comparisons, but they will always be out there, especially when unknown players begin to make names for themselves.
Cooper Kupp went to Eastern Washington, and the Los Angeles Rams drafted him in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Chism is the first Eagles receiver signed since Kupp was drafted in 2017.
If you want to look at Patriots comparisons, look no further than Julian Edelman. The last great small, shifty slot receiver for New England. Edelman is 5-foot-10, one inch shorter than Chism.
It's early, and Chism has his work cut out for him, but if he continues his impressive start to OTAs, I'm sure Patriots' fans would love to embrace the underdog.