Eagles Lose Linebacker Christian Elliss on Waivers, Highlighting Front Office Miscalculation
The Philadelphia Eagles’ decision to waive linebacker Christian Elliss backfires as he is claimed by the New England Patriots, exposing a miscalculation by the Eagles’ front office.
When the Philadelphia Eagles waived linebacker Christian Elliss, they were hoping he would clear waivers and return to their practice squad. However, their plan went awry as the New England Patriots claimed Elliss, and six other teams expressed interest in acquiring the talented 24-year-old linebacker. The Eagles’ front office now faces scrutiny for their decision-making, highlighting a potential miscalculation that could impact the team’s special teams unit.
Eagles’ Hopes Dashed as Elliss is Claimed by Patriots
The Eagles had hoped that Christian Elliss would clear waivers, allowing them to bring him back to their practice squad. However, the New England Patriots swooped in and claimed him, leaving the Eagles empty-handed. This turn of events raises questions about the Eagles’ assessment of Elliss’ value and their decision to release him.
Curious Decision by the Eagles’ Front Office
The timing of the Eagles’ decision to release Elliss seems questionable. They waited until Wednesday, likely hoping to slip him through waivers unnoticed. However, this strategy backfired, and the Patriots, along with several other teams, expressed interest in acquiring Elliss. The Eagles had other options to create a roster spot for incoming linebacker Shaq Leonard, such as placing Leonard on the practice squad or cutting another player, like Albert Okwuegbunam.
Impact on Special Teams
While the loss of Elliss may not have a significant impact on the Eagles’ overall season, it could be felt on special teams. Elliss has been a mainstay on special teams, playing the most snaps in that unit in 2023. His absence will create a void that the Eagles will need to fill. The decision to waive Elliss instead of Ben VanSumeren, who had already been elevated the maximum three times this season, raises further questions about the Eagles’ thinking.
Adjustments and Moving Forward
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni acknowledged the loss of Elliss but expressed confidence in the team’s depth at the linebacker position. He emphasized that multiple players would step up to fill the void on special teams. While the Eagles have been successful on special teams this season, Elliss’ contributions will be missed.
Conclusion: The Eagles’ decision to waive linebacker Christian Elliss with the hope of bringing him back to their practice squad ultimately backfired. The New England Patriots claimed Elliss on waivers, exposing a miscalculation by the Eagles’ front office. While the loss of Elliss may not have a significant impact on the team’s overall performance, it highlights the importance of strategic decision-making and the potential consequences of misjudging a player’s value. The Eagles will now need to make adjustments and find ways to fill the void left by Elliss on their special teams unit.