Saints Roster: Realistic expectations for Kaden Elliss in 2022

Kaden Elliss is entering his fourth year on the New Orleans Saints roster. What should fans expect from the former seventh-round pick? 

It’s always a nice story when a seventh-round pick can stick around the NFL. New Orleans Saints linebacker Kaden Elliss has been able to do just that.

A seventh-rounder out of Idaho in the 2019 NFL Draft, Elliss has carved out a nice role for himself in the Big Easy. He didn’t do much as a rookie, appearing in just three games and appearing in 55% of special teams snaps during that time.

Special teams has been where Elliss has excelled during his time on the field, only appearing in a maximum of 23% defensive snaps, which came last year.

Saints Roster: What should fans expect from Kaden Elliss in 2022?

As mentioned above, Elliss has made a name for himself in New Orleans. He had 17 tackles, three QB hits, and the first sack of his career through 13 games. He also started the first game of his career during the 2021 season.

Elliss should be able to make the 53-man roster but there are a lot of linebackers on the roster looking to do the same thing. Rookies D’Marco Jackson, Nephi Sewell, and Isaiah Pryor are all hoping to impress during the preseason and there are also names like Andrew Dowell and Eric Wilson looking to make a big enough impression.

Elliss is a trusted name in the Saints locker room though mostly for what he offers on special teams. That’s where his main role will be once again during the 2022 season and it’s been a good role for him.

This is the final year of Kaden Elliss’ rookie contract so he’ll have a lot to play for this year. Maybe he’s not a starting-caliber linebacker in the NFL but he’s a really good special teams contributor and has worked his way up to a reliable backup on defense.

There’s a lot at stake for Kaden Elliss this year if he plays well and he’ll give the Saints another respectable season.