Patriots linebacker Christian Ellis remarked he was just doing his job after delivering a heavy hit to Giants quarterback Jackson Dart, which stirred some controversy during Monday’s game at Gillette Stadium.
Dart, who was back on the field after missing two games due to a concussion, escaped the pocket and moved to his right in the first half. It was then that Ellis lowered his shoulder, sending the rookie quarterback tumbling out of bounds.
When asked about the implications of such a hit on the opposing QB, Ellis responded quite straightforwardly, saying, “Please be sure to skate.”
Ellis further explained, “During the play, I noticed a scramble and I began to pursue him. I thought he was trying to get out of bounds, but then he hesitated, staying in bounds… I had to make a decision.”
“We’re working hard on defense, trying to bring energy to the team. So, I was just doing my job and hit whoever was in the whites,” he added.
After the hit on Dart, Giants tight end Theo Johnson pushed Ellis, leading to a mix-up between the players from both teams. Johnson was subsequently penalized for a personal foul while New York was down by 10 points.
Ellis acknowledged that he understood Johnson’s reaction. He noted, “If it were our quarterback getting hit, we’d probably feel the same way.”
Dart, however, downplayed the incident, stating that he hadn’t changed his approach during the play. “I know the hit is part of football,” he explained. “Whether you’re in the pocket or running, you have to expect contact.”
He added, “This is how I’ve played throughout my career. It shouldn’t surprise anyone. We’re here to play football, and hits are just part of it.” Despite concerns regarding his aggressive style, Dart said he intends to keep playing that way.
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel commented that Ellis’ hit served as a reminder to the team’s quarterbacks. “I won’t have them pampered on the sideline,” he stated.
The Giants (2-11) and Patriots (11-2) will both have a bye in Week 14. The Giants will play the Washington Commanders afterward, while the Patriots are set to face the Buffalo Bills on December 14 at Gillette Stadium.
