Patriots Shaken: Former First-Team All-America Star Declares He’s Willing to Take a Pay Cut Just to Stay in New England – and Wait for His Chance to Prove Himself

Foxborough, Massachusetts – 11/28/2025

Amid a wave of roster changes at Foxboro and Mike Vrabel’s aggressive rebuild, one of the most emotional stories of the week came straight from the New England Patriots locker room. Efton Chism III – the former First-Team All-America (FCS) and All-Big Sky standout – has been told he’s no longer in the immediate plans. Yet instead of bitterness or looking for the exit, he responded in a way that left all of Patriots Nation choked up.

Chism, who turned heads all summer and throughout the 2025 preseason, has seen his snaps disappear since DeMario Douglas rediscovered his form. Analysts point out he’s one of the last three players still “hanging on” to a roster spot, but Chism refuses to see himself as just a warm body. To him, being a Patriot is still the opportunity – the environment where he truly believes he can become the best version of himself, just like he did at Eastern Washington.

While many young players in his position demand trades or chase bigger roles elsewhere, Chism stunned everyone with his choice. Instead of asking for more snaps, more money, or long-term guarantees, he went public with his desire to stay in the Patriots locker room and grind every single day until his chance comes:“ If I have to sacrifice salary, playing time, or position, I’m willing to do it. I just want one shot to prove I belong in this jersey, and I’m not giving up until I get it. I believe one day all this work will pay off – and I want that day to happen in New England.” That raw, heartfelt statement instantly brought tears to Patriots Nation’s eyes.

Teammates describe Chism as the ultimate quiet professional – never complaining even after weeks on the bench. Anyone who followed the team since offseason saw the explosion: crisp route-running, blazing speed, and an unrelenting competitive fire that earned him First-Team All-America honors at the FCS level. The fact that he’s willing to take less money just to stay speaks volumes about his rare level of commitment to the team.

As the Patriots head into the most critical stretch of the season, Efton Chism III’s story has become an inspiring reminder: the NFL isn’t only for those handed opportunities – it’s also for those patient and tough enough to wait for them. And sometimes, the players fighting silently in the shadows are the ones who truly define a team’s soul. New England has seen it – and so has all of Patriots Nation.