Patriots Rumors: Why Sought-After Rookie Chose New England

Patriots undrafted rookie receiver Efton Chism III had options.

The Eastern Washington product reportedly went on six top-30 visits before the 2025 NFL Draft, including a meeting with Sean Payton’s Broncos. Denver also was among the teams which pursued the shifty slot receiver following the draft, according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss.

Chism, however, chose to move across the country and chase a roster spot in Foxboro, Mass.

“… Coach Mike Vrabel personally calling Chism ‘made an impact on him,’ as did offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels’ track record of success with undersized receivers,” Reiss wrote in a column published Sunday, citing sources familiar with the rookie’s decision-making.

The Patriots made a legitimate financial commitment to Chism, as well. His three-year contract includes $234,000 in guaranteed base salary and a $25,000 signing bonus, which is the richest deal among New England’s 16 undrafted free agents, per Reiss.

Chism hauled in 346 receptions for 3,852 yards and 37 touchdowns during his collegiate career at Eastern Washington. A product of the same program as Cooper Kupp, the 5-foot-10, 193-pound Chism is best known for breaking an FCS record previously held by Kupp.