NFL Makes Announcement on Patriots’ Breakout Defensive Star
Fair to say that, through the first four years of his NFL career, Patriots edge rusher K’Lavon Chaisson came up far short of the first-round draft pick billing he received coming out of LSU in 2021, when Jacksonville used the No. 20 overall pick on him. Chaisson lost his starting role after Year 2 with the Jaguars, and it was not until late last season, after he moved to the Raiders, that he began showing some promise.
His mission this summer, after signing with the Patriots on a one-year, $3 million contract, was to keep the progress rolling–because if he didn’t, his NFL career was just about ready to dry up.
At the outset of training camp, Chaisson said, “That’s the goal, obviously, to keep making progress and obviously keep taking steps forward. So I’m going to keep doing everything I can, the best as I can to keep taking them steps forward and obviously make the team better.”
K’Lavon Chaisson Wins AFC Player of the Week for Week 7 Win
He has done that, and on Sunday, he had his best game as a Patriot and arguably his best game in the NFL. Chaisson notched two sacks in Sunday’s 27-10 win over the Titans, and spooked Cam Ward into a fumble that Chaisson converted into a touchdown.
For his efforts, Chaisson was awarded the AFC’s Defensive Player of the Week Award for the first time in his career.
The Patriots wrote on their Twitter/X account: “@Patriots LB K’Lavon Chaisson has been named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his Week 7 performance, recording 2 sacks and a fumble recovered for a TD. This is his first-career POTW award and the team’s first on defense since 2022.”
K’Lavon Chaisson Improving for Patriots
On the grading system given by Pro Football Focus, Chaisson’s increasing comfort with the Patriots defense has been obvious. He struggled in the opener, and posted just a 53.0 grade in the team’s Week 2 win over Miami. Since then, he has gotten a better grade each week–57.0 in Week 3 and 62.7 in Week 4 against Carolina. Chaisson missed the Buffalo game with an injury.
But he posted a 67.7 grade in Week 6, and a season-high 75.1 grade in Week 7, earning the DPOW honors.
Patriots’ Vrabel: ‘He Showed Up Ready to Learn’
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said the sacks (he now has 4.5) and the touchdown have been nice, but he has seen Chaisson work for the better of the team in all phases, even on special teams.
“I mean, he showed up in the offseason ready to learn, work and earn a role, and he’s done that,” Vrabel said. “I would say that he’s an important member of the punt team. Something that he’s taken very seriously since he got here, trying to do those things and help us on the punt team, and then taking advantage of his opportunities.”
Nik Bonitto Reflects on Epic Comeback: 'We Fight Until the Last Whistle—That’s How We’ll Keep Winning'
The Denver Broncos pulled off a dramatic and historic comeback in their Week 7 clash with the New York Giants, proving that no deficit is too big for a team with heart, determination, and resilience. Trailing by 19 points entering the fourth quarter, the Broncos staged a remarkable 33-point surge to win 33–32, thanks in large part to their relentless mindset and never-say-die attitude.
“We came into that game knowing we had to give it our all, no matter the odds. It wasn’t just about talent—it was about heart and determination,” said Broncos linebacker Nik Bonitto after the game. His words perfectly encapsulate the spirit that fueled the team’s incredible turnaround. The Giants, leading 26-8 with just over five minutes left in the game, thought they had the victory locked up, but they underestimated the heart of the Broncos.
The Heart of the Team
Bonitto’s comments reflect not only his personal commitment but also the collective resolve of the entire team. The Broncos’ offensive and defensive units remained calm, focused, and executed with precision when it mattered most. While it was a team effort, the leadership and mentality of Bonitto played a significant role in maintaining composure during such a tense, high-stakes situation.
“We fought until the last whistle, and that’s how we’ll keep winning,” Bonitto added. It’s clear that this mentality has become the hallmark of the Broncos’ success this season. Whether on offense or defense, the Broncos are proving that their never-give-up attitude is one of their strongest assets, regardless of the score.
The Comeback Was a Test of Character
As the game progressed, the Broncos began to chip away at the Giants’ lead. Quarterback Bo Nix threw two touchdown passes in the final five minutes, including one to tight end Darren Waller, and kicker Wil Lutz capped the comeback with a game-winning 39-yard field goal as time expired. Meanwhile, the defense stepped up in critical moments, with Bonitto’s leadership igniting the relentless pursuit of victory.
This type of resilience was on full display when the Giants' defense began to falter in the face of mounting pressure. Turnovers, missed opportunities, and defensive breakdowns allowed the Broncos to capitalize and reclaim control of the game.
Looking Ahead
This victory was not just about securing another win on the board—it was about reaffirming the identity of this Broncos team. With their ability to battle through adversity, the Broncos are showing the league that they are built for the long haul, no matter the obstacles in their way.
As they look ahead to their next matchups, the Broncos will carry this powerful momentum, knowing that the heart and determination they displayed against the Giants can take them to new heights. Nik Bonitto’s leadership, along with the collective fight of the team, will be crucial in the coming weeks as the Broncos aim to solidify their place as true contenders.
