Eagles Surprisingly Release Defender Days After Start in 49ers Loss
The Philadelphia Eagles are making a few moves to coincide with Shaquille Leonard’s addition to the roster.
As announced by the Eagles on Wednesday, December 6, Philadelphia is releasing linebacker Christian Elliss. The move is surprising considering the 24-year-old had started during the team’s 42-19 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 14.
“The Eagles have waived linebacker Christian Elliss from the active roster,” writes Owen Boyle of the Eagles’ official website. “In 12 games this season, Elliss has 16 tackles, two tackles for loss, and one
quarterback pressure. The 24-year-old made his first career start in Week 13 against the San Francisco 49ers. The undrafted free agent joined the organization in 2021 after being waived by the Minnesota Vikings. Elliss made 26 tackles in 19 games with the Eagles.”
During his first career start against San Francisco, Elliss made six combined tackles while appearing in 75% of the defensive snaps. During the week prior, he appeared in 28% of the defensive snaps in the Eagles’ 37-34 win over the Buffalo Bills following Zach Cunningham’s injury.
However, Cunningham is expected to be back for this week’s game against the Dallas Cowboys. His return combined with Leonard’s signing made Elliss the odd man out.
Over the course of his career with the Eagles, Elliss had seen the majority of his playing time on special teams, appearing in 87% of the special teams snaps in 2021, 62% of the special teams snaps in 2022 and 76% of the special team snaps this season.
Eagles Bringing Back Wide Receiver Greg Ward
In a corresponding move, Philadelphia is bringing back a longtime receiver.
The Eagles also announced they’re re-signing wide receiver Greg Ward to the practice squad.
