Patriots restricted free agent visits with Raiders
One of the Patriots’ restricted free agents reportedly visited with another team.
According to Aaron Wilson on Monday, linebacker Christian Elliss took a visit with the Las Vegas Raiders. The Pats tendered Elliss earlier this month for one year at $3.263 million.
Elliss was tendered at the “right of first refusal” level. This means the Patriots reserve the right to match or decline any offer sheet he signs with the Raiders or any other club, but would not receive any draft pick compensation if he departs.
Playing by far the most defensive snaps of his career for the Patriots in 2024, the 26-year-old Elliss’ role elevated in the wake of Ja’Whaun Bentley’s season-ending pectoral injury. Elliss totaled 80 tackles, one interception, and one forced fumble, plus 1.5 sacks and five QB hits.
Mike Vrabel’s new-look Patriots showed enough interest to keep Elliss around on a one-year tender. But Elliss and his camp seem to believe he has a chance to land a longer-term deal or more money elsewhere.
The Pats’ remade linebacker room remains something to monitor, whether players are coming in or heading out.
Matt Dolloff is a writer and digital content producer for 98.5 The Sports Hub. Read all of his articles here.
