The Philadelphia Eagles are making adjustments following the inclusion of Shaquille Leonard in their lineup. In an announcement made by the Eagles on December 6, they revealed the decision to release linebacker Christian Elliss. This move comes as a surprise, particularly since the 24-year-old played a starting role in the team’s 42-19 defeat against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 14.
Owen Boyle from the Eagles’ official website reported, “The Eagles have decided to release linebacker Christian Elliss from the active roster.” Elliss, in his 12 appearances this season, accumulated 16 tackles, two tackles for loss, and one quarterback pressure. Notably, he made his debut start in Week 13 against the San Francisco 49ers. Having joined the organization in 2021 after being waived by the Minnesota Vikings, Elliss, an undrafted free agent, contributed 26 tackles across 19 games with the Eagles.
Elliss had six combined tackles while playing 75% of the defensive snaps in his first career start against San Francisco. Following Zach Cunningham’s injury, he played 28% of the defensive snaps in the Eagles’ 37-34 win over the Buffalo Bills the week before.
Cunningham, on the other hand, is slated to return for this week’s game against the Dallas Cowboys. Elliss was the odd man out after his return and Leonard’s signing.
Elliss has spent the most of his tenure with the Eagles on special teams, participating in 87% of special teams snaps in 2021, 62% of special teams snaps in 2022, and 76% of special team snaps this season.
Eagles Bringing Back Wide Receiver Greg Ward
In response to recent changes, the Philadelphia Eagles are reintroducing a familiar face. They have officially declared the re-signing of wide receiver Greg Ward to their practice squad.
According to Boyle’s report, “The Eagles have brought back wide receiver Greg Ward to the practice squad.” Ward had previously been released from the practice squad on November 30. His association with the team dates back to 2017 when he was first signed, contributing to their Super Bowl LII victory as a member of the practice squad. Across 40 career games, which included 13 starts, this former college quarterback amassed 88 receptions, totaling 768 yards and 10 touchdowns. Notably, in 2020, Ward led the team in both receptions (53) and receiving touchdowns (6).
Ward’s tenure with the Eagles has been characterized by intermittent spells on and off the practice squad since his initial signing in 2017. Despite being a part of the Philadelphia organization in each season since then, he has not made an appearance in a game since the 2021 season.
Nick Sirianni Comments on Shaquille Leonard’s Signing
The Eagles’ enthusiasm surrounding Leonard’s addition is evident.
The three-time Pro Bowl linebacker is anticipated to bolster an already formidable front seven, which includes four Pro Bowlers—Brandon Graham, Fletcher Cox, Josh Sweat, and Haason Reddick—after opting for the Eagles over the Cowboys.
Head coach Nick Sirianni expressed his thoughts on Leonard’s signing shortly after his decision earlier in the week. According to Alexis Chassen of SB Nation’s Bleeding Green Nation:
“We are confident that we are getting not just the right player but also the right leader,” Sirianni stated on Monday, December 4. “We’ve seen from his performances that he still possesses the skills and abilities to excel in this league. Since his debut in ’18, he has been a three-time All-Pro player. He maintains the ability to create turnovers and make impactful tackles. His length remains an asset, making passing difficult for opponents.”
In his initial four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, the three-time Pro Bowler accumulated impressive statistics, tallying 15 sacks, 17 forced fumbles, seven fumble recoveries, and 11 interceptions. If Leonard can replicate these impactful performances in Philadelphia, the Eagles could conceivably boast one of the most talented defensive units in the NFL.
