With the NFL preseason over, teams have begun cutting down their roster. The New England Patriots have had good performances from multiple rookies during training camp and preseason so far. One unexpected player, in particular, has made a strong push to secure an increase in playing time once the regular season begins.
Patriots WR Efton Chism Needs to See His Playing Time Increase
The big standout from training camp and preseason has been undrafted receiver Efton Chism. The former Eastern Washington Eagle has parlayed strong plays into seemingly making the 53-man roster. During the Patriots' second preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings, Chism made multiple impressive plays, with the highlight being a 9-yard touchdown, in which he fought through four defenders. With what Chism has displayed so far, when the regular season begins, Chism needs to see the field on offense.
Chism has been a great fit so far in Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels’ offense. With Chism’s success and McDaniel’s history of getting great results from receivers who play in the slot, this is a perfect pairing and should help improve the team's offense, which struggled last year, finishing near the bottom of the league.
While playing well during the preseason and regular season are two different things, Chism has more than earned his shot at proving he's more than just a preseason player and could be a regular-season contributor.
For years, the Patriots have struggled at the wide receiver position, and with what Chism has displayed so far, he could be a solid contributor to the offense when the season begins. While only time will tell how much playing time the Patriots give Chism, he’s shown to be a great find for an undrafted player.
The Patriots kick off the regular season with a home matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, September 7th, at 1:00 pm.