The New England Patriots made headlines at the 2025 NFL Draft by outbidding six other teams in a fierce competition to sign undrafted free agent (UDFA) Efton Chism III, a wide receiver from Eastern Washington. With a contract worth $234,000, including a $25,000 signing bonus, the Patriots paid an unusually high price for a UDFA, especially for a player like Chism, who wasn’t projected to be a standout before the draft. So, what drove the Patriots to invest so heavily in Chism, and why were they willing to outbid rivals, including the Denver Broncos led by head coach Sean Payton? Let’s uncover the shocking factors behind this decision.
1. Breaking Cooper Kupp’s Records and Striking Similarities
Efton Chism III is no stranger to Eastern Washington, where he surpassed the legendary Cooper Kupp – former Super Bowl MVP and the 2021 NFL leader in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns – to set two remarkable records. Chism recorded 120 receptions in the 2024 season, breaking Kupp’s school record of 117, and established an FCS record with 53 consecutive games with at least one reception, surpassing Kupp’s 52. With a career total of 346 receptions, 3,852 yards, and 37 touchdowns in college, Chism proved himself as an exceptional slot receiver, particularly in catching short passes and outmaneuvering defenders.
The similarities between Chism and Kupp go beyond statistics. Eastern Washington head coach Aaron Best described Chism as having “excellent hand-eye coordination” and a dedication to his teammates, much like Kupp displayed. Neither possesses blazing speed or imposing size, but both excel in precise route-running, spatial awareness, and agility in tight spaces. These qualities led the Patriots to see Chism as a potential “next Cooper Kupp” – a diamond in the rough who could shine in their offensive system.
“We know it’s not where you start, it’s where you finish,” Coach Best told ESPN. “Efton’s not the tallest, not the fastest, not the strongest, but he’s got a bigger heart than most and always carries a chip on his shoulder.”
2. The Bidding War and Josh McDaniels’ Strategy
Following the 2025 NFL Draft, Chism became the center of a bidding war among several teams, including the Denver Broncos, where head coach Sean Payton personally got involved in recruitment efforts. According to ESPN, the Patriots offered a guaranteed base salary of $234,000 and a $25,000 signing bonus to outbid six competitors, a rare figure for a UDFA. This move underscored the Patriots’ high valuation of Chism’s potential and their willingness to pay a premium to secure his signature.
The primary reason lies in Chism’s perfect fit within the offensive system designed by coordinator Josh McDaniels. McDaniels has long been known for maximizing the potential of quick, agile slot receivers who can run diverse routes and create separation in tight spaces – players like Wes Welker, Julian Edelman, and Danny Amendola are prime examples. Chism, with a 6.77-second 3-cone drill time and 74.9% of his 2024 snaps played in the slot, is the ideal archetype for this system. His quick burst, smooth route-running, and durability, showcased by his performance at the East-West Shrine Bowl (four receptions on four targets), further solidified the Patriots’ confidence.
“If you’re looking for the quintessential Josh McDaniels slot receiver, Chism is your guy,” a report from Pats Pulpit noted.
3. The Patriots’ History of Unearthing Hidden Gems
The Patriots have a storied tradition of identifying and developing UDFAs, with names like Malcolm Butler, Jakobi Meyers, and David Andrews becoming key contributors. For 19 consecutive years from 2004 to 2022, the Patriots had at least one UDFA make their 53-man roster, and after this streak was broken in 2023, they restarted it with Dell Pettus in 2024. Chism, with his impressive resume and versatility, is seen as a strong candidate to continue this legacy.
Despite recent additions to the Patriots’ wide receiver room, including Stefon Diggs, Mack Hollins, and draft pick Kyle Williams, there remains a gap for a dynamic slot receiver. With Kendrick Bourne – another Eastern Washington alum – facing the possibility of being cut, Chism has a significant opportunity to earn a roster spot. His ability to contribute on special teams and experience as a punt returner further enhances his value, particularly in the eyes of head coach Mike Vrabel, who prioritizes versatile players.
4. The “Chip on the Shoulder” Factor – A Drive to Prove Himself
Another shocking reason behind the Patriots’ investment in Chism is his relentless drive and motivation to prove himself. Despite his stellar college stats, Chism was overlooked in the draft due to his limited long-speed (4.71 seconds in the 40-yard dash) and playing in the FCS, where competition is less intense. This caused him to go undrafted, despite being ranked between 29th and 40th among wide receiver prospects. However, this perceived slight fueled Chism’s determination, evident in his extra reps after rookie camp practices and standout performances at the Hula Bowl and Shrine Bowl.
Coach Aaron Best emphasized: “Efton’s the kind of player who feels he’s let his teammates down if the ball hits the ground. He doesn’t chase stats; he chases trust.” This mentality, combined with his quick learning ability and dedication, convinced the Patriots that Chism could overcome his physical limitations to become a significant contributor.
5. Long-Term Vision: Building Around Drake Maye
Finally, the decision to pay a premium for Chism reflects the Patriots’ long-term vision of building a roster around young quarterback Drake Maye, their first-round pick in 2024. A reliable slot receiver like Chism could become Maye’s “go-to guy” on the field, providing safe options in high-pressure situations and creating explosive plays from short passes. With this “expensive” UDFA contract, the Patriots are clearly investing in a strategic piece, not just for the 2025 season but for years to come.
Conclusion
The Patriots’ decision to outbid six teams to sign Efton Chism III was not a mere gamble but a calculated move, driven by his similarities to Cooper Kupp, his fit in Josh McDaniels’ system, the team’s history of developing UDFAs, Chism’s personal drive, and their vision of building around Drake Maye. While Chism’s path in the NFL won’t be easy, his track record gives the Patriots reason to believe they’ve found a true hidden gem. Can Chism replicate Cooper Kupp’s journey from UDFA to star? Only time will tell.