# Efton Chism III NFL performance reception

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/efton-chism-iii-nfl-performance-reception
> Updated: 2026-10-17T03:49:53.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

New England Patriots receiver Efton Chism III has garnered significant attention following standout performances in recent games. Following a game-winning, one-handed touchdown catch in a victory over the Buffalo Bills, Chism faced criticism from Bills safety C. J. Gardner-Johnson, who dismissed the player as an “elevated guy” and a “practice squad player.”

Chism later executed a creative trick play during a game against the Las Vegas Raiders, handing the ball to running back TreVeyon Henderson to secure a first down. This play drew praise from Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce on the ‘New Heights’ podcast, where Kelce stated, “I like where this kid’s head’s at. He’s a ball player.” Patriots coach Mike Vrabel noted that Chism’s improvisational style during the play was reminiscent of Kelce’s own approach to the game.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-17: Travis Kelce praises Efton Chism III for creative Patriots play

Travis Kelce praised New England Patriots receiver Efton Chism III for an improvisational trick play during a game against the Raiders, calling him a ‘ball player’ on his podcast.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/travis-kelce-praises-efton-chism-iii-for-creative-patriots-play

### 2026-10-06: Efton Chism III's game-winning catch sparks reaction from NFL players

Patriots receiver Efton Chism III's game-winning touchdown against the Buffalo Bills has sparked debate following dismissive comments from Bills safety C. J. Gardner-Johnson.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/efton-chism-iiis-game-winning-catch-sparks-reaction-from-nfl-players

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Cite as: Efton Chism III NFL performance reception. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/efton-chism-iii-nfl-performance-reception