The signings of Travis Etienne and David Edwards dominated New Orleans Saints headlines during the early portions of free agency. Seeing that both signings were ones fans clamored for and will help quarterback Tyler Shough, it's no surprise they were the talk of the town. Biggest doesn't mean best, however. PFF's Zoltan Buday believes that title goes to Kaden Elliss.
It's somewhat of a surprising choice by Buday. With the departure of Demario Davis, linebacker became a much bigger and important signing. While Elliss may not carry the star power of some marquee signings, his production and durability make him a major addition.
Elliss returns to New Orleans after three seasons with the Falcons. He became a full-time starter in Atlanta and managed to log more than 1,000 snaps in each of those seasons, something the Saints will need after the departure of Elliss has been among the 32 highest-graded linebackers in each of the past three seasons, including placing in the top 25 and 2023 and 2024.
Kaden Elliss the hidden addition that could shape the New Orleans Saints defense
After developing into a full time starter and logging heavy snap counts in recent seasons, Elliss returns to New Orleans as a proven, high motor defender who can immediately strengthen the trenches of the Saints defense. His experience and versatility should allow him to make an instant impact. If Elliss continues his upward trajectory, this reunion could prove to be one of the offseason’s smartest moves.
Ellis has developed into a productive versatile linebacker because of his motor and ability to impact both the run and pass game. He earned a 67.8 PFF grade last season. He also showed his value as a blitzer who can create pressure and situations quarterbacks. Elliss finished with an impressive 83.6 passer rush grade. That ability to affect the pocket adds an extra dimension to any defense he’s apart of.
Free agency is often defined by splashy signings and big contracts. The signing of Ellis may fly under the radar, but it shouldn’t. He fits exactly what the Saints need defensively. If his production carries into this season, the impact will speak for itself. What may seem like a modest move now could ultimately be a foundation piece that elevates the Saints defense in 2026.