After being cut for the sixth time in his NFL career, Christian Elliss was claimed by the New England Patriots near the end of the 2023 season.
Despite only appearing on special teams down the stretch, Elliss was thrusted into a larger role back with the club the next season. Playing a career-high 49 percent of the Patriots’ defensive snaps in 2024, Elliss had a career-year with 80 total tackles, one interception and five pass deflections.
Elliss’ success led to him signing a two-year, $13.5 million offer sheet in free agency with the Las Vegas Raiders, where the linebacker shed some tears of joy as the moment hit him.
Things then got even more exciting, as New England exercised their right to match the deal and retain Elliss for the next two seasons.
“When I got the call from Eliot [Wolf] it was nothing but excitement, nothing but joy,” Elliss said Thursday. “It’s been amazing to be desired by the organization, desired by the team and to see what they have in store not only as a team but as a defense.”
That defense will feature changes around Elliss. Beyond New England remodeling the linebacker depth next to him — most noticeably adding Robert Spillane in free agency and moving on from veteran Ja’Whaun Bentley — head coach Mike Vrabel and defensive coordinator Terrell Williams will implement a new scheme.
The 6-foot-2, 231 pound Elliss believes he’ll be a strong fit in what they’re asking him to do.
“I think my skill set fits perfectly within the defense. It fits perfectly within the scheme,” Elliss said. “You know, there’s some stuff I haven’t done before, and they’re teaching me how to do it. So I’m excited to try these new things that they’re showing me, you know, the Tennessee style. So I’m excited about it.”
Through the early stages of the team’s voluntary offseason program, the learning process has included working hand-in-hand with Spillane. The new linebacker has been a valuable resource as he previously played in Tennessee under the current coaching staff.
“He’s a fun guy to be around,” Elliss said of Spillane. “Just getting to know him right off the get he’s energetic. He’s always happy, he’s always excited, you know he’ll get into it make sure everyone’s on the right page. I think that’s something that we look for in especially in the mike linebacker.”
