Chaisson, a former first-round pick looking to solidify his role in New England, has quietly built momentum throughout camp despite a setback that cost him a few days of practice following the in-stadium session earlier this month. He’s been a consistent presence off the edge and his role has steadily grown since the spring.
His connection with head coach Mike Vrabel, a former linebacker himself, has been a key part of his development.
“It’s been fantastic,” Chaisson said of working with Vrabel. “Every little bit of advice he gives out is super critical to the game.” He also praised outside linebackers coach Mike Smith, saying, “He’s been around Pro Bowlers… some future Hall of Fame players. Every bit of advice from him and Coach Vrabel is super helpful.”
Chaisson’s mindset is rooted in not overthinking. “Just keeping the game of football as simple as possible… enjoying the smell of grass, man, going out here and getting the person with the ball. It’s fun.”
After dealing with injuries and roster uncertainty in previous seasons with the Jaguars and Raiders, Chaisson is embracing the opportunity to contribute. “Anytime I get a chance to be out here and just be productive, I try to take advantage of it,” he said, expressing hopes of finding a long-term NFL home. “I look forward to being somewhere stable and consistent, where I can give the fan base and franchise everything I got.”
On the offensive side, Mack Hollins has emerged as a tone-setter for the Patriots’ wide receiver group. Entering his ninth NFL season, Hollins brings a unique blend of intensity, leadership, and versatility. Known for his special teams prowess and physical blocking throughout his career, Hollins has shown consistent chemistry as a receiver with rookie quarterback Drake Maye throughout the summer.
That chemistry continues to grow with every session, both on and off the field.
“I think it’s reps,” Hollins said. “But then it’s hanging out in the locker room or going to eat. Those dinners before games matter… they build a rapport that translates to the field.”
Hollins’ energy is infectious. “Everybody here is a high-level athlete… compete and have fun with this game,” he said. “It’s a game at the end of the day. Don’t forget that.”
His approach to doing the little things that help win football games is rooted in pride and purpose. “Some of my best plays in my career were when I didn’t have the ball,” Hollins said. “If I spring a block and nobody knows it, but my teammates do, I love that type of stuff.”
He’s also mentoring younger players like Javon Baker, emphasizing the importance of versatility. “It doesn’t matter how you stay on the bus, it just matters that you’re on the bus,” Hollins said. “Then you get opportunities.”
Even nine years into his career, Hollins remains hungry. “The day I stop chasing is the day I hang it up,” he said. “If you’re just going through the motions, that’s a good way to leave on a note you don’t want to leave on.”
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