Travis Kelce Gives Efton Chism Advice After Trick Play

Travis Kelce has shared some honest advice for New England Patriots wide receiver Efton Chism after the young player showcased a creative trick play reminiscent of the Kansas City Chiefs tight end’s playing style.

During the Patriots’ 45-17 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders last week, Chism pulled off an unexpected move that helped his team secure a first down. The play caught Kelce’s attention, prompting the three-time Super Bowl champion to offer a few pointers while watching the highlight on his New Heights podcast with his brother, Jason Kelce.

Travis Kelce Reacts to Efton Chism’s Trick Play

The play occurred in the second quarter on third-and-11. Patriots quarterback Drake Maye connected with Chism on a short pass, but instead of simply advancing the ball himself, the wide receiver quickly handed it to TreVeyon Henderson. Henderson then ran forward and successfully picked up the first down.

On this week’s episode of New Heights, Travis and Jason Kelce watched the sequence and discussed Chism’s decision-making. Travis praised the young receiver’s awareness while pointing out how he could improve the execution of the play.

“I like it,” Kelce said while reacting to Chism’s play. “Third-and-11, knowing where the ball players are, ‘you guys got me but don’t got him.’ Easy first. You keep it on this upfield shoulder though, bud. You keep it on his upfield shoulder. You think you got to, like, throw it back. But really, you just got to throw it down the line. That way you can keep him running and get him another nice head start.”

Kelce was impressed with Chism’s instincts and willingness to make an unconventional decision on the field. He also made it clear that he liked what he saw from the young Patriots wide receiver.

“It’s good stuff though. I like where this kid’s head’s at. He’s a ball player.”

Kelce’s comments highlighted the importance of creativity, awareness and communication in making unexpected plays work. His advice also gave Chism a practical adjustment that could help him execute similar plays more effectively in the future.

Mike Vrabel Says Efton Chism Is “Acting Like Travis Kelce”

Chism’s trick play also caught the attention of Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel. During an appearance on The Greg Hill Show after the game, Vrabel compared the receiver’s improvisational approach to Kelce’s playing style.

“He’s just acting like Kelce,” Vrabel said. “He just makes s**t up as he goes. Like, this is what we’re gonna do now?”

Vrabel’s humorous description reflected the spontaneous nature of the play. Kelce has built a reputation for his ability to read defensive situations, adjust on the fly and find creative ways to help the Chiefs’ offense move the chains.

Chism’s decision to transfer the ball to Henderson demonstrated a similar willingness to improvise. Although the play differed from a conventional passing sequence, it helped New England convert a crucial third-down situation during its commanding win over Las Vegas.

Travis Kelce’s Numbers Ahead of the Chiefs’ Next Game

The Kansas City Chiefs had a bye in Week 5 after opening the season with a perfect 4-0 record. During those four games, Kelce recorded 16 receptions for 246 receiving yards and two touchdowns.

The veteran tight end remains an important part of the Chiefs’ offense, bringing experience, reliable hands and an understanding of defensive coverages that has helped him develop a strong connection with quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Kelce’s reaction to Chism’s play also demonstrated how his approach to football has influenced other players. His ability to improvise and recognize opportunities has become a defining part of his reputation in the NFL.

Patrick Mahomes Credits Travis Kelce for Teaching Him to Build Trust

Travis Kelce’s influence extends beyond his on-field production. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes recently credited the tight end with helping him understand the importance of building trust and communication with teammates.

During a Wednesday press conference, Mahomes explained how his relationship with Kelce helped establish a foundation for effective communication between a quarterback and his receivers.

“I think it started with Travis,” Mahomes said. “I think that was kind of the biggest thing when I first got into the league and started starting. He always would just talk to me after every play, and then, when we got to games, I would know what he was thinking.”

Mahomes explained that the habit of discussing plays and expectations has influenced how he works with other offensive players, including Rashee Rice. These conversations help teammates understand one another before game situations arise.

“Obviously, that’s kind of blossomed to what it’s blossomed to, so I try to keep that going. I’ve done it with Rashee (Rice) now. I’ve done it with a lot of these guys that we’ve kind of been through here: we have these conversations so that, when we get in the game, we’re on the same page thinking. If we’re not, we talk about it on the sideline right after and try to be on the same page the next rep.”

Mahomes’ comments underline how consistent communication can strengthen an offense. By discussing routes, reads and expectations between plays, quarterbacks and receivers can build the chemistry needed to react quickly when defensive situations change.

When Will the Kansas City Chiefs Play Next?

The Kansas City Chiefs are scheduled to face the Los Angeles Chargers on October 18 at 4:25 p.m. ET. The matchup will give Kansas City another opportunity to build momentum as the 2026 NFL season continues.

With Kelce continuing to contribute on offense and Mahomes emphasizing trust among his teammates, the Chiefs will look to maintain their competitive form in their upcoming contest.

Meanwhile, Chism’s performance against the Raiders has provided an entertaining example of how creative thinking can produce results on the football field. With Kelce offering advice on the finer details, the young Patriots receiver has received an encouraging endorsement from one of the NFL’s most experienced offensive playmakers.