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9h ago

Vrabel Fires Back After Bills’ C.J. Gardner-Johnson Calls Chism a ‘Practice Squad’ Player

Boosting Efton Chism’s profile, the exchange prompted swift criticism of Gardner-Johnson and pushed New England to increase the young receiver’s role.

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows New England Patriots wide receiver Efton Chism III (86) makes a catch for a touchdown, Image 2 shows New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel reacts on the sideline during a game against the Buffalo Bills, Image 3 shows C.J. Gardner-Johnson #22 of the Buffalo Bills celebrates after winning the game against the Los Angeles Chargers
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Overview

  • Efton Chism III delivered a one-handed, game-winning 23-yard touchdown that gave the Patriots a 29-26 win over the Bills on Oct. 4 and immediately drew a dismissive postgame remark from Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson.
  • Gardner-Johnson told reporters that Chism was a “practice squad player” who “probably won’t be heard from again,” a claim contradicted by multiple reports showing Chism has been on New England’s 53-man roster since 2025.
  • Patriots coach Mike Vrabel answered Gardner-Johnson on Boston radio on Oct. 5 by mocking the Bills veteran’s journeyman history, and several Patriots players publicly defended Chism in follow-up interviews.
  • New England plans to give Chism more playing opportunities after his performance, while Buffalo’s coach urged focus on upcoming games and media panels urged the Bills to consider the PR and roster fallout from Gardner-Johnson’s comments.
  • The exchange has sharpened the AFC East narrative ahead of the teams’ Week 13 meeting on Dec. 6 and highlighted both Chism’s rise from undrafted free agent to impact player and Gardner-Johnson’s reputation for outspoken, controversial remarks.