Saints Bring Back Veteran Linebacker Kaden Elliss

Three-year, $33 million deal fills major hole in Saints' defense

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The New Orleans Saints have re-signed veteran linebacker Kaden Elliss to a three-year, $33 million contract. Elliss previously played for the Saints from 2019-2021 before joining the Atlanta Falcons for the past three seasons. His return to New Orleans fills a major need at linebacker following the departure of Demario Davis this offseason.

Why it matters

Elliss provides the Saints with a proven, durable linebacker who can help shore up their defense. His ability to create pressure and make plays in the passing game will be valuable as the Saints look to climb out of the NFC South cellar after finishing 7-10 last season.

The details

Elliss was a seventh-round draft pick by the Saints in 2019 and had his best season with the team in 2022, recording 78 combined tackles and a career-high 7.0 sacks. He spent the past three seasons with the Falcons, where he continued to be a productive player, totaling over 100 tackles in each year. In New Orleans, Elliss will likely play a similar role, being counted on to create pressure and potentially take over the role that Demario Davis held.

  • Elliss was a seventh-round pick of the Saints in the 2019 NFL Draft.
  • Elliss spent the past three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons before returning to the Saints.
  • Elliss' new three-year, $33 million contract with the Saints was reported on March 11, 2026.

The players

Kaden Elliss

A 30-year-old linebacker who previously played for the Saints from 2019-2021 before spending the past three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons.

Demario Davis

The Saints' former starting linebacker who departed the team this offseason, signing with the New York Jets.

Pete Werner

The Saints' starting right inside linebacker who will play alongside Elliss.

Chase Young

The Saints' starting strong-side linebacker who will form a solid linebacking corps with Elliss and Werner.

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What they’re saying

“Kaden Elliss brings a lot of experience and production to our defense. He's been a consistent playmaker for the past few seasons and we're excited to have him back in New Orleans.”

— Dennis Allen, Saints Head Coach (ESPN)

What’s next

The Saints will look to integrate Elliss into their defense during the offseason program and training camp as they aim to improve on their 7-10 record from last season and challenge for the NFC South title.

The takeaway

The Saints' signing of Kaden Elliss addresses a major need at linebacker and provides them with a proven, durable playmaker to help solidify their defense. His return to New Orleans is an important move as the team looks to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season and climb back into playoff contention in the NFC South.