Giardi on Chism...Vrabel pointing out "physicality' is a big thing since that has been one of his points of emphasis in building the new culture.
I haven't been caught up in the Efton Chism hype train. Yes, he has the makings of an NFL player, but his best work came during the spring, and with all due respect, football isn't played in shorts and t-shirts. So when Chism struggled to produce consistently during the start of camp, it looked more and more like he was a practice squad candidate/developmental player.
But the last few days have certainly made me reconsider that stance. Chism was rock solid in the joint practice with the Commanders on Wednesday, then added six receptions for 50 yards and a touchdown in Friday night's preseason opener.
“It was awesome. Super surreal,” he said after the game. “You kind of walk out of the tunnel with everyone...it’s just a blessing to be out here. I don’t take for granted that I got to go out there and play. Definitely super awesome, and I’m super thankful for the opportunity.”
Chism was beaming from ear to ear as he stood at the podium and fielded questions. It certainly helped that Mike Vrabel praised the youngster for the physicality he displayed as a blocker and for how he finished his runs. One in particular, a short gain in the right flat, was punctuated by Chism lowering his shoulder and running through a defender. Yes, it was unexpected, and the bench absolutely lost their minds, hooting, hollering, and flexing.
"I think his play strength stood out to me, just from the sideline,” said Vrabel. “I think it’s the way he blocks, his ability to catch the ball in traffic. The ball was basically tipped or bobbled coming out of Ben’s [Wooldridge] hand, kind of ran through a tackle, ran through contact, and we threw him a screen. So, those are all positive things. I think his play strength to me is what stood out.”
“Anytime you kind of get a compliment from a head coach, it’s definitely an honor,” said Chism. “So, I appreciate that from him. But I feel like just playing hard, that’s kind of what I pride myself on, and the little details and going out there and doing everything I can to my full ability. So, I felt like when I got the ball, I got to show that, but even in the blocking, I try to show that in the running, blocking, and the route running, whatever it is, just kind of playing hard.”
The Pats could keep seven receivers on the initial 53-man roster. Considering there are five locks (Diggs, Douglas, Hollins, Williams, Boutte), the door is very much open for Chism to earn a spot. And even if he doesn't, the likelihood of him being claimed on waivers is relatively low, as teams seem more and more inclined to keep the players they've been working with since the spring. Then again, if Chism has another week like this past one, he might just make his case so strong the Patriots don't want to risk his loss. Not bad for an undrafted player.
