Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, I identified Eastern Washington wide receiver Efton Chism as one of the most underrated prospects in the class. Early returns out of New England suggest that assessment was spot on. In his short time with the Patriots, Chism has turned heads during OTAs, impressing coaches and teammates alike with his quickness and elite change-of-direction ability.
Production and consistency that translate
Anyone familiar with Chism’s career at Eastern Washington shouldn’t be surprised. He was a model of consistency for the Eagles, catching a pass in 53 consecutive games an FCS record previously held by Cooper Kupp. Kupp, of course, went on to become the NFL Offensive Player of the Year and has racked up over 7,700 receiving yards and 57 touchdowns to date. Like Kupp, Chism paired consistency with production. He led the FCS in receptions this past season with 120 and finished second in receiving yards with 1,311.
Chism’s film and metrics show a receiver built for the next level. His hands are elite—he dropped just 2.4% of targets and caught 58% of contested passes this year, according to Pro Football Focus. Those traits have already shown up in Foxborough, where he’s consistently secured tough catches.
What sets Chism apart is his ability to create separation without elite speed. He ran a 4.71-second 40-yard dash, but his agility and footwork routinely allowed him to shake defenders, even when defenses keyed on him. He also plays stronger than his size suggests, forcing 28 missed tackles last season and putting up 16 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press at his pro day.
As for his fit in New England, Chism is a natural candidate for the slot. His agility, toughness, and ball skills make him a strong asset in traffic-heavy areas of the field, while limiting exposure to vertical routes that would require top-end speed—his one true limitation. Special teams experience adds to his value; he averaged 21 yards per kickoff return and was a steady punt returner in college.
Even if Chism doesn’t crack the Patriots’ final roster—despite being their highest-paid undrafted free agent—he won’t be on the market long. The Denver Broncos were reportedly in the mix for his services post-draft and could circle back if he becomes available.
Wherever he lands, Chism has the traits to carve out a role as a reliable NFL slot receiver. He’s a polished, tough, and smart player—exactly the kind who sticks.