Raiders Extend Offer Sheet to Linebacker Christian Elliss

Las Vegas, NV – The Las Vegas Raiders have made a significant move in the NFL’s restricted free agency period by signing linebacker Christian Elliss to an offer sheet this week. This contract proposal, reported on March 19, 2025, comes right after Elliss’s visit to the Raiders.

Elliss, who previously played for the New England Patriots, has been tendered at the lowest level by the Patriots, meaning they have until Monday to match the Raiders’ offer or allow him to leave without compensation. The initial tender amount stands at $3.26 million for the 2025 season.

After joining the Patriots during the 2023 season, Elliss has seen considerable development on the field. In the 2024 season, he recorded 80 tackles, 1.5 sacks, an interception, five passes defended, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery across 16 games, solidifying his role as a key player in the defense.

Pelissero from NFL Network reported, “The #Raiders have signed #Patriots restricted free agent LB to an offer sheet, per the wire. New England has until Monday to match.” This sets a timeline for the Patriots, who have been active in the offseason, significantly strengthening their front seven with new signings.

Christian Elliss, 26, began his NFL journey as an undrafted free agent in 2021, first joining the Minnesota Vikings before moving to the Philadelphia Eagles, where he played for three seasons. He made a notable impression, particularly last season with the Patriots, where he recorded career-high statistics despite starting only five games.

Among his accomplishments, Elliss displayed versatility by participating in both defensive and special teams snaps, totaling 513 on defense and 247 on special teams. Following his standout performance last season, his potential move to the Raiders marks a pivotal opportunity for both Elliss and the team.

The Raiders are hoping to bolster their defensive lineup after losing other key players. Despite having capable options in unrestricted free agency, the team’s securing of Elliss through the restricted process speaks to their immediate needs. However, plans will remain on hold until the Patriots respond to the offer sheet.

If the Patriots choose not to match the Raiders’ offer, they will not receive any compensation given the tender was at the lowest level. This situation follows a trend in recent years where restricted free agency offers have gained attention as teams look to acquire talent from each other.

Elliss, who hails from Michigan, played his college football at the University of Idaho and joins a lineage of NFL players, including his brother Kaden Elliss. His performance trajectory offers promise for the Raiders as they assess their roster for the upcoming 2025 season.