With limited finances, there weren’t many splash free agents or household names that the New Orleans Saints could realistically pursue this offseason, but they still found several ways to improve their roster in free agency. One of those free agent signings was middle linebacker Kaden Elliss. He seems to have flown under the radar, but his experience and production tell a different story.
Elliss is reuniting with the Saints for his second stint with the squad. The Saints originally selected him in the 7th round of the 2019 NFL Draft, where he saw the majority of his playing time as a rotational contributor in four seasons. In the final year of his rookie contract, he finally broke out, recording 78 tackles, 7 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles.
This production led to a new opportunity to become a full time starter for the Atlanta Falcons over the next three years. The Saints needed to find a replacement after losing Demario Davis to the New York Jets in free agency. They would respond by bringing Elliss back years later on a 3 year $33 million deal. This go around, Elliss will have a much larger role as the starting middle linebacker and the defense’s signal caller, a role that he is accustomed to.
Kaden Elliss doesn’t get enough recognition for his impact
After moving on from the New Orleans Saints, Kaden Elliss signed a three year $21.5 million deal with the Atlanta Falcons. During his three seasons in Atlanta, Elliss took on the new role as the starting middle linebacker. He was the definition of reliable, playing and starting in all 51 competitions. He anchored several defenses, utilizing his versatility in pass coverage and as an elite blitzer.
Elliss finished the 2025 campaign 107 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and a career high 6 pass breakups. He posted solid PFF grades, earning an overall grade of 67.8, while exhibiting his specialty of blitzing with an elite 83.6 pass rush grade. He also posted a decent 61.8 coverage grade, but struggled against the run, ranking in the 25th percentile amongst middle linebackers with a 56.9 run grade.
Elliss’s name may not be mentioned with the elite talents of the league, but he’s certainly a fine starter that can contribute instantly. His arrival gives the Saints defense the potential to elevate, over the next three seasons. His production speaks volumes and for $11 million annually the Saints got a bang for their buck.
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