Vrabel Mocks Gardner-Johnson's Career After 'Practice Squad' Dig
Patriots coach fires back at Bills safety for comments about receiver Chism.
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel responded to Buffalo Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson's comments about receiver Efton Chism III by referencing Gardner-Johnson's own career path.
Gardner-Johnson had called Chism's game-winning catch against the Bills on Sunday a play made by a "practice squad player." In response, Vrabel noted Gardner-Johnson's own history of being on practice squads and his frequent team changes. "For a guy that’s been on eight teams in four years? I guess he knows the drill," Vrabel said on WEEI, alluding to Gardner-Johnson's eight-year NFL career which has included stints on practice squads and multiple team switches. Gardner-Johnson is currently with his fifth team in the past two seasons.
Chism's one-handed reception with 1:50 remaining in the fourth quarter secured a 29-26 victory for the Patriots over the Bills. This marked the second touchdown of the second-year undrafted receiver's career. Chism has recorded seven catches for 110 yards in 11 career games, all with New England after making the 53-man roster in 2025.
Following the game, Gardner-Johnson had stated, "We’re not going to get into no bulletin board material. An elevated guy made a hell of a catch. Probably won’t hear from him again, respectfully."
Vrabel defended Chism, emphasizing his work ethic. "Nobody works harder," Vrabel said of Chism. "You love to see players take advantage of opportunities and help the team win."
The Patriots' win brought their record to 2-2, placing them one game behind the Bills in the AFC East standings. The two teams are scheduled to play again in Week 13 in Foxborough.