Sitting in a special-teams meeting recently, the Packers’ third-year linebacker’s ears perked up when coordinator Ron Zook began naming veterans whom rookies and college free agents should aspire to emulate.
It surprised Elliott to hear his own name on Zook’s list. Not that praise was unfounded. After all, Elliott’s 26 coverage tackles lead the Packers’ special teams over the past two seasons. It’s just what the comment represents – he’s a veteran now.
While Elliott is still tugging on the defensive coattails of Julius Peppers and Clay Matthews in outside linebacker meetings, young players now look up to him on special teams.