The New England Patriots have opted to retain linebacker Christian Elliss, choosing to match the offer sheet he signed with the Las Vegas Raiders last week. This decision prevents Elliss from departing without any compensation for the team.
According to ESPN’s Mike Reiss, the Patriots’ decision to match the offer sheet secures Elliss’ two-year contract, effectively blocking his move to Las Vegas. This move will result in a $4.84 million cap charge for Elliss this season, a notable increase from the $3.26 million he was originally set to earn under his restricted free agent tender.
New England Patriots Match Las Vegas Raiders Offer on Christian Elliss
Elliss joined the Patriots during the 2023 season, following his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he played in 19 games over three seasons. In his 16 games with the Patriots last year, he recorded 80 tackles, 1.5 sacks, an interception, five passes defensed, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery.
Elliss, at 26 years old, entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Minnesota Vikings in 2021, following his collegiate career at Idaho. However, he did not make the Vikings’ final roster after the preseason. Subsequently, the Philadelphia Eagles signed him to their practice squad in September 2021, where he experienced periods of being elevated to and demoted from the active roster.