Efton Chism

ANALYSIS
Chism also logged 16 kickoff returns in that span for 383 yards. While the 24-year-old slot man, who joined the team as an undrafted rookie out of Eastern Washington, didn't make much of a statistical impact as a rookie, he's a player who figures to stick around as a depth WR/returner in 2026. Whether Chism makes more of an impact as a receiver in his second NFL campaign hinges on the team's offseason moves, but as things stand, fellow WRs Stefon Diggs, Kayshon Boutte, Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams and DeMario Douglas are under contract with New England next season.

ANALYSIS
The undrafted rookie out of Eastern Washington entered training camp as a longshot to make the Patriots' 53-man roster. However, Chism impressed coaches and players alike in practices and played well in his two preseason games, logging 12 catches on 14 targets for 121 yards and two touchdowns. He was inactive for the Patriots' first five regular-season games but could be on the field Sunday, and Hines relays that Chism, if active, would likely fill in as a kickoff returner due to the absence of running back Antonio Gibson, who was placed on injured reserve Friday with a knee injury.