5 Patriots players highlighted by Mike Vrabel after Eagles preseason game

Foxborough, Massachusetts - On August 22, 2026, in a preseason NFL game against the Philadelphia Eagles, the New England Patriots chose to rest their starters. Head coach Mike Vrabel highlighted five players who showed promise during the game: wide receivers Efton Chism and Kyle Dixon, offensive tackle Dametrious Crownover, defensive tackle Leonard Taylor, and cornerback Kindle Vildor.

Vrabel praised Kindle Vildor for having competitive snaps and Crownover for his pass protection efforts. He also commended Leonard Taylor for his performance and factoring into the game. Efton Chism, a wide receiver, was highlighted for making plays and blocking when needed.

Four of these players have a realistic chance at making the 53-man roster before next week's cutdown deadline. Kindle Vildor is competing for the fifth cornerback position, Dametrious Crownover could become a practice squad option, Leonard Taylor has a chance for a rotational spot behind Milton Williams and Christian Barmore, and Efton Chism is fighting for the last spot in the deep wide receiver room.

Despite his efforts and contributing two catches for 10 yards against Philadelphia, Kyle Dixon likely won't make the active roster due to the strong competition at his position. He and the other players mentioned by Vrabel will get more opportunities to prove themselves as the Patriots practice twice before their preseason finale in Cleveland on Thursday.