49ers Linked to Free Agent LB with Raheem Morris Connection

San Francisco could add veteran linebacker Kaden Elliss to bolster their defense.

Mar. 8, 2026 at 3:20pm

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The San Francisco 49ers are reportedly interested in signing free agent linebacker Kaden Elliss, who has a connection to new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris. Elliss, a seven-year NFL veteran, previously played for Morris with the Atlanta Falcons and could provide depth and experience to the 49ers' linebacker corps, which is facing several free agent departures.

Why it matters

The 49ers are looking to reload their linebacker unit after losing several key players to free agency. Signing Elliss, who has familiarity with Morris' defensive scheme, could be a cost-effective way to add a veteran presence and insurance in case of injuries.

The details

Kaden Elliss, 30, was a seventh-round draft pick of the New Orleans Saints in 2019 after a standout college career at Idaho. He spent four seasons with the Saints before joining the Atlanta Falcons, where he played the last three years under current 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris. Over his seven-year NFL career, Elliss has appeared in 99 games with 63 starts, recording 481 tackles, 20.5 sacks, and other impactful defensive stats.

  • The 49ers are looking to sign Elliss ahead of the start of the new league year on March 15, 2026.

The players

Kaden Elliss

A 30-year-old linebacker who has spent the last three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, where he played under new 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris.

Raheem Morris

The new defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, who previously coached Kaden Elliss with the Atlanta Falcons.

Fred Warner

The 49ers' four-time All-Pro linebacker who is expected to return in 2026 after missing most of the 2025 season with an injury.

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What they’re saying

“The 49ers are getting Fred Warner back in 2026, but they could still use more help in the linebacker room, and one former Falcon could be a good fit.”

— Jeremy Fowler, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The 49ers will need to decide whether to sign Elliss before the start of free agency on March 15, 2026.

The takeaway

Signing Kaden Elliss, who has familiarity with new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris' scheme, could be a savvy move for the 49ers to bolster their linebacker depth and experience as they look to return to the playoffs in 2026.