Kaden Elliss: Everything you need to know

Elliss agreed to terms Tuesday on a three-year, $33 million contract with the Saints, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. Elliss played nearly every defensive snap for the Falcons over the past three seasons, piling up at least 107 tackles each year while totaling 12.5 sacks and two interceptions in that stretch. Now, he'll return to the team that drafted him in the seventh round back in 2019. The 30-year-old is set to receive $23 million guaranteed, which puts him in a strong position to start at inside linebacker next to Pete Werner in 2026.

Elliss recorded 107 total tackles (59 solo), including 3.5 sacks, six passes defensed, including one interception, and one forced fumble over 17 regular-season games in 2025. The veteran linebacker from Idaho remained one of the Falcons' top defensive playmakers in 2025, leading the team in total tackles and setting a new career high in passes defensed. However, Elliss saw declines in both total tackles (151 to 107) and sacks (6.0 to 3.5) compared to his 2024 campaign, despite logging 48 more defensive snaps this season. The 30-year-old is set to hit unrestricted free agency this offseason and could still command a solid contract following his third consecutive season with triple-digit stops.

Elliss recorded four tackles (one solo) during Atlanta's win over the Cardinals on Sunday. Elliss continues to have a strong season, having compiled at least four tackles in all 15 of his appearances. The 2019 seventh-round pick will look to build on this performance and keep producing during the team's Week 17 matchup against the Rams.