The Las Vegas Raiders forced the Patriots’ hand on that matter after they signed the restricted free agent linebacker to an offer sheet Wednesday, per the NFL transactions wire. The Patriots have until Monday to match the offer. Details on the Raiders’ offer to Elliss were not revealed.
The Patriots tendered the 26-year-old Elliss at the right-of-first-refusal level prior to the start of free agency. That meant New England had a chance to match an offer sheet, but won’t get any compensation in return if they turn down the opportunity since Elliss came into the NFL as an undrafted free agent.
It was trending toward the Patriots potentially losing Elliss after he reportedly visited the Raiders on Monday. And the Patriots might decide to pass on Elliss especially after reportedly inking former Tennessee Titans linebacker Jack Gibbens to a deal Wednesday.
Elliss, who joined the Patriots late in the 2023 season after being released by the Philadelphia Eagles, carved out a role on New England’s defense last season with his under-the-radar play. He turned in a career-high 80 tackles in 2024, which was good for third-best on the team, to go along with 1.5 sacks, five passes defended, one interception and one forced fumble.
Elliss received his most playing time since entering the NFL in 2021 this past season with the Patriots. He played 49% of New England’s defensive snaps and also played 60% of special teams snaps.
