Not only are the New England Patriots thinking about the talent they can acquire in free agency, but they’re also considering the talent they could potentially lose.
Pro Football Focus’ Dalton Wasserman named one player each NFL team can’t afford to lose in the upcoming offseason. There was a mild surprise for the Patriots with linebacker Christian Elliss being chosen as the one free agent the team has to keep.
Elliss had 80 tackles, a sack and a half, a forced fumble and an interception last season. He was a highly productive player with the linebacker unit decimated with injuries. He took full advantage of his extended opportunities on the field by having a career season.
Wasserman wrote:
Elliss was New England’s highest-graded linebacker in 2024, as the rest of the unit struggled to find its footing. He is a versatile player who can provide value off the ball or when lined up on the edge. Much of the Patriots’ offseason focus will be on offense, but they still won’t want too many contributors departing from the defense in the process.
Elliss is undoubtedly at the top of the Patriots’ free-agent list, but this is still a big mention considering cornerback Jonathan Jones and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr., two Super Bowl champions, are also free agents in the offseason.
The Patriots will have some tough decisions to make in the coming weeks, and Elliss is clearly one of them.
