Eagles 'Surprise Standout': LB Christian Elliss a 'Welcome' Sight
Every NFL season, new players emerge as strong contributors and stars to make a name for themselves. Sometimes, that player comes seemingly out of nowhere... But usually offseason workouts are a good indicator as to how a player is developing... at least in the eyes of the coaching staff and teammates.
Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Christian Elliss stood out at OTAs, setting the tone on defense and getting first-team reps next to Nakobe Dean thanks to Nicholas Morrow's absence.
As a result, ESPN picked Elliss as a surprising standout this spring:
The third-year player out of Idaho made several highlight plays this spring, including intercepting Jalen Hurts and returning it for a touchdown during 7-on-7 drills on the final day of OTAs. Having lost both starting linebackers in free agency this offseason, it would be a welcome development for the Eagles if Elliss can contribute along with current projected starters Nakobe Dean and Nicholas Morrow.
The Eagles tout one of the deepest rosters in the NFL but hope that Elliss can step in and produce as an off-ball linebacker. Philadelphia needs to replace the 2,140 defensive snaps T.J. Edwards and Kyzir White combined to provide in Philadelphia's run to Super Bowl LVII last season.
Playing in only six games last season, Elliss finished with seven total tackles, including a career-high four tackles against the Giants. This season, he'll look to parlay his strong spring showing into more game time.
With the help of undrafted free agent Elliss, the Eagles hope to fill the only real hole on their roster. After signing quarterback Jalen Hurts to a new contract extension, the Eagles are again legitimate Super Bowl contenders, with the second-best odds to win the Super Bowl. Even if Ellis doesn't snag a starting spot, more production from him would benefit the defense in a major way this season.
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