Can a Patriots 27-Year-Old Linebacker Find Continued Success in 2026?
While Drake Maye had an MVP-like year in 2025, it was the New England Patriots’ defense that helped them become legitimate Super Bowl contenders. During Super Bowl LX, the Seattle Seahawks offense was too much to handle for the Patriots defense, and New England’s offense was not nearly as experienced as a Super Bowl-ready offense usually should be. Now in 2026, the Patriots have seen upgrades on both sides of the ball and have the opportunity to become Super Bowl contenders once again. One constant for New England’s defense will be linebacker Christian Elliss, who will be looking to find continued success in the upcoming season.
In 16 games two seasons ago, Elliss recorded 80 combined tackles, 42 solo and 38 assisted, as well as one tackle for a loss of yardage, one and a half sacks, five pass deflections, one interception, and one forced fumble. Last season, the 27-year-old linebacker had 94 combined tackles, 39 solo and 55 assisted, in addition to three pass deflections and one forced fumble. During New England’s playoff run a year ago, the former Idaho Vandals linebacker produced 19 combined tackles, two tackles for a loss of yardage, two pass deflections, and one forced fumble. Elliss was a valuable part of the Patriots’ defense throughout the 2025 season and during New England’s way to the Super Bowl. The last two seasons saw him play a combined 31 out of 34 games; if he stays healthy, the 27-year-old will certainly have a bigger identity within the defense than what we saw in 2024 & 2025.
New England’s defense won’t be an issue in 2026 unless they get hit with the injury bug. Elliss is surrounded by an elite cast that will help the Patriots be one of the best teams in the AFC once again. The 27-year-old can certainly live up to wider expectations and find continued success, yet the former Idaho Vandals linebacker must maintain the focus, consistency, and play he’s had throughout his time in New England. Especially as this will be his final year before his contract expires. Elliss will show on the field in some huge ways for the Patriots to get the big payday he’s searching for come the end of the 2026 season.
