The New England Patriots are set to visit the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship game. But for Patriots linebacker Christian Elliss, more than just a trip to the Super Bowl is on the line.
Is Patriots Christian Elliss Related to Broncos Jonah Elliss?
Before the game that will determine the AFC’s representative for Super Bowl 60 in Santa Clara, a compelling story has unfolded, pitting two brothers against each other, with one seeking a lifetime of bragging rights.
The Elliss name is being proudly represented on the AFC’s biggest stage. The Patriots linebacker will face his brother, Jonah Elliss, a Broncos linebacker.
Welcome to Elliss brother bowl. Patriots’ Christian vs. Broncos’ Jonah with Super Bowl & bragging rights on the line.
Let the better Elliss bro win.
For @nflnetwork @NFLGameDay: pic.twitter.com/aJ4hSFiP2r
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) January 25, 2026
According to a report from NFL reporter Cameron Wolfe, this is the first time that the two brothers will face each other in their careers, with this being Christian’s fifth year in the NFL. In contrast, his younger brother Jonah looks to reach the Super Bowl in just his second year in the NFL.
The winner of this brotherly battle will not only head to Super Bowl 60 but also gain the top bragging rights in the family, along with a reported private bet between them. Clearly, these two Elliss brothers are some of the fiercest competitors.
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Christian said this matchup with his younger brother Jonah is going to be emotional. However, this is no secret to his Patriots teammates, who shared a simple message with the linebacker to make sure he would be ready and motivated for the biggest game of his career. “Be the better Elliss brother.” Quite the motivational message.
This AFC championship game is going to be quite the family affair for the Elliss’, and the family is not going to miss it for the world. Wolfe reported that Christian’s father, Luther Elliss, a former defensive tackle who played nine seasons with the Detroit Lions before his final year with the Broncos, will be in the building, along with his mother and most of his 10 other brothers and sisters.
Despite the father’s ties to the Broncos organization as a former player, the Elliss family will be wearing navy blue in the stands, as the color is represented by both the Patriots and the Broncos. No one will be taking any sides in the stands, with a Super Bowl appearance confirmed for the Elliss family regardless of the outcome of this afternoon’s game.
With the AFC Championship game turned to the Elliss Bowl in Denver, Christian and Jonah will have to put brotherhood aside until the final whistle. With a Super Bowl appearance hanging in the balance, the pair are just opponents standing in each other’s way for the day.
