Tribune News Service

In a somewhat surprising move, the Patriots have matched the offer sheet for restricted free agent linebacker Christian Elliss. 

The Patriots placed a first right of refusal tender on Elliss earlier this offseason, making the 26-year-old linebacker a restricted free agent. The tender value for Elliss was $3.263 million for this season. The Raiders offered Elliss more money at $4.82 million last week. 

On Monday, the Patriots agreed to match that two-year offer sheet, keeping Elliss on the team through the 2026 season.

Elliss was an undrafted free agent out of Idaho. He signed with the Patriots after being released by the Philadelphia Eagles in December 2023. He played in just four games during the 2023 season. Predominantly a special teamer, Elliss started a career-high five games in 2024, appearing in 16 games for the second time in his career. 

Elliss had a career year in 2024 picking up his first career sack, interception and fumble. He finished the season with 80 combined tackles, 1 1/2 sacks, 5 quarterback hits, 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery and defended 5 passes. 

Elliss returns to a linebacker room that features free agent additions Harold Landry, Robert Spillane, Ja’Whaun Bentley and Jahlani Tavai. Elliss will primarily see time in sub packages and all special teams.