Linebacker Kaden Elliss is making his way back to the New Orleans Saints after three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. Reports confirm that Elliss has agreed to a three-year contract worth $33 million, marking a significant return to the team that initially drafted him in 2019.
Elliss’s Journey from Draft to Starting Linebacker
Originally selected by the Saints in the seventh round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Elliss began his professional career primarily contributing to special teams. Over time, he earned a larger defensive role during his initial years with New Orleans, establishing himself as a dependable player.
After moving to the Atlanta Falcons in 2023, Elliss became a consistent starter, beginning every game through three seasons. Over that period, he compiled impressive statistics including 380 tackles, 12.5 sacks, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery, demonstrating his impact on the field.
Contract Details Highlight Commitment to Defensive Strength
The reported agreement includes $23 million guaranteed with the contract’s maximum value nearly reaching $39 million. Agents Malki Kawa and Ethan Lock of First Round Management negotiated the deal, underscoring the team’s intent to add a key defensive player. The Saints are aiming for Elliss to deliver the same strong performance to help solidify their defense moving forward.
The #Saints are adding a lynchpin on defense, signing former #Falcons LB Kaden Elliss, sources say. He gets a 3-year, $33M deal with $23M guaranteed in a deal done by agents Malki Kawa and Ethan Lock of @FirstRoundMgmt. Max value is nearly $39M. pic.twitter.com/pz1sWTmSih
?Ian Rapoport, NFL Insider
Next Steps Before Elliss Officially Joins the Saints
While the agreement has been reached, Kaden Elliss cannot officially sign the contract until the NFL’s new league year begins. Once finalized, Elliss will be positioned to add experience and depth to the Saints’ linebacker corps, potentially influencing the team’s defensive tactics in upcoming seasons.
The #Saints are adding a lynchpin on defense, signing former #Falcons LB Kaden Elliss, sources say.
He gets a 3-year, $33M deal with $23M guaranteed in a deal done by agents Malki Kawa and Ethan Lock of @FirstRoundMgmt. Max value is nearly $39M. pic.twitter.com/pz1sWTmSih
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 10, 2026
