Sportsnaut
Christian Elliss re-signed with the Patriots this offseason, and the linebacker figures to play a large role in the middle of the defense again in 2025.
For most of the summer, Elliss has been running with the first team alongside new addition Robert Spillane. The hopes are high for a Patriots’ defense that struggled in 2024 now that Mike Vrabel is the head coach and the team brought in veterans like Spillane, Milton Williams, and Carlton Davis II.
As one of the leaders on defense, Elliss’ opinion matters. That’s why his recent comments about an impressive rookie have generated excitement.
On Tuesday, Ellis took time to praise rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson. The running back has impressed this summer as he tries to secure a role beside Rhamondre Stevenson in the backfield. Ellis mentioned that he sees “greatness” in Henderson already.
“He’s been an amazing addition to this team,” Elliss said of Henderson, per Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald. “I see nothing but greatness in him. I think he’s gonna be amazing. I can’t speak highly enough of him.”
“He even got me on a go route the other day that I just, I honestly wasn’t expecting out of him. And he just keeps showing that he can play.” Elliss goes against Henderson every day, so it’s encouraging that he was willing to praise the rookie.
Henderson was a major part of an Ohio State team that won the championship last season. The former Buckeye rushed for 1,016 yards and 10 touchdowns while catching 27 passes for 284 yards and one score. In New England, Stevenson is in place as the starter, but Henderson could cut into the veteran’s workload if he continues to impress.
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