Patriots block the Raiders' attempt to steal promising restricted free agent linebacker
The New England Patriots did not want to let Christian Elliss leave. The Patriots tendered Elliss prior to the start of free agency, but the Raiders signed the restricted free agent to an offer sheet. New England had until Monday to match the offer, and ESPN's Mike Reiss reports that they did just that. Ellis has […]
The New England Patriots did not want to let Christian Elliss leave.
The Patriots tendered Elliss prior to the start of free agency, but the Raiders signed the restricted free agent to an offer sheet. New England had until Monday to match the offer, and ESPN's Mike Reiss reports that they did just that.
Ellis has signed a two-year deal with the Patriots, keeping him in New England through 2026.
This move wasn't a given considering the Patriots have signed Robert Spillane and Jack Gibbens in free agency. With that depth at the linebacker position, it was questioned whether New England would do what they could to keep Elliss around.
However, it's clear that they see him as part of the future of the team. And that's because Elliss is someone who fits what head coach Mike Vrabel is looking for.
Elliss joined the Patriots towards the end of the 2023 season, becoming a core special teamer. However, in 2024, he stepped up and became a bigger piece on defense. He finished with 80 tackles with 1.5 sacks, five quarterback hits, five passes defended, and an interception.
Along with bringing in Spillane, Gibbens, and Harold Landry III, the Patriots also have linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley, K'Lavon Chaisson, Curtis Jacobs, Anfernee Jennings, Titus Leo, Andrew Parker, and Jahlani Tavai.
The ball is in the Patriots’ court after Raiders give offer sheet to restricted free agent LB Christian Elliss
Let’s see what they decide to do.
