Bucs Eyeing Falcons Linebacker in Free Agency?

Tampa Bay looks to bolster defense by poaching from NFC South rival.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:30am

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As the NFL free agency period approaches, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in need of defensive reinforcements, particularly at linebacker and cornerback. One potential target could be Kaden Elliss, a linebacker from the Atlanta Falcons, according to NFL analyst Aaron Schatz. Elliss, who had 3.5 sacks in 2025, would fit well into the Bucs' blitz-heavy defensive schemes under Todd Bowles.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers' defense struggled at times last season, and they could benefit from adding talented players like Elliss to improve their unit. Poaching a key player from a division rival would also weaken the Falcons and give Tampa Bay an advantage in the NFC South.

The details

The Buccaneers are in need of multiple defensive upgrades, including at cornerback, linebacker, and edge rusher. They could lose cornerback Jamel Dean in free agency, and have doubts about the potential of Zyon McCollum and Benjamin Morrison. At linebacker, the team may need to invest significantly to replace departing players.

  • The NFL's legal tampering period begins on March 13, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL free agency period officially opens on March 15, 2026.

The players

Kaden Elliss

A linebacker for the Atlanta Falcons who had 3.5 sacks in 2025 and could be a target for the Buccaneers in free agency.

Todd Bowles

The defensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, known for his blitz-heavy schemes that could benefit from a player like Kaden Elliss.

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What they’re saying

“His bold prediction for the offseason suggests that the Buccaneers might successfully lure Elliss away from their rivals, the Falcons, during free agency.”

— Aaron Schatz, NFL analyst

What’s next

The Buccaneers will need to act quickly and decisively in free agency to address their defensive needs, including potentially pursuing Kaden Elliss from the Falcons.

The takeaway

The Buccaneers' offseason strategy of strengthening their own roster by weakening their division rivals could pay dividends if they are able to sign a talented player like Kaden Elliss away from the Falcons.