Who Should I Start? Tommy Mellott or Efton Chism III

Friday, May 23, 12:19 PM

The Athletic's Tashan Reed reports that Las Vegas Raiders rookie sixth-rounder Tommy Mellott got significant action at slot receiver during an OTA practice this week. The quarterback-turned-receiver made cornerback Darnay Holmes fall on an in-and-out route on one rep before catching a pass from quarterback Geno Smith and turning upfield. Receiver Tre Tucker made the most impressive play of the day on a deep route where he got open over the top of the safety for a diving catch. Tucker started most of last year, but his role could be in jeopardy in 2025 after the Raiders drafted Dont'e Thornton and Jack Bech. Mellott is fast and athletic at 6-foot, 208 pounds but will most likely serve in a depth role at wideout in his first year in the NFL while also contributing as a return option on special teams.

Saturday, August 16, 6:52 PM

New England Patriots wide receiver Efton Chism III caught all six of his targets for 71 yards and a touchdown during Saturday's preseason win over the Minnesota Vikings. Chism is an undrafted free agent who is competing for a spot on New England's 53-man roster. All of his catches Saturday came in the first half, making his performance even more remarkable. The rookie didn't play in the second half of the game, most likely due to his strong first half. The Patriots' TV broadcast speculated that Chism made the team with his big showing, and they also noted that he was receiving some attention from a trainer, which will be a storyline to follow going forward. Head coach Mike Vrabel and vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf both prioritized speaking favorably about Chism during their respective television interviews, which is another good sign as he competes for a roster spot. It's also worth noting that Chism attended Eastern Washington, which is the same school where Cooper Kupp played. Chism broke many of Kupp's records with the Eagles program, and now he looks to make an impact at the NFL level.