The New Orleans Saints are bringing back one of their own.
The Saints have agreed to a three-year, $33 million deal with linebacker Kaden Elliss, according to NFL Network, with $23 million guaranteed and a maximum value of nearly $39 million.
Elliss, 30, was originally drafted by New Orleans in the seventh round of the 2019 draft. After four seasons with the Saints, he signed with the division rival Atlanta Falcons, where he’s been for the past three seasons.
He now returns to New Orleans a day after longtime Saints linebacker Demario Davis agreed to a deal with the New York Jets.
Elliss was considered one of the most underrated players on the Falcons over the last few seasons. In 2025, he led the team in tackles (107) from the inside linebacker spot and had 3.5 sacks, 10 tackles for a loss, one interception and six passes defended. He also was a team captain.
It’s Elliss’ versatility that really stood out. Despite playing inside, Elliss was asked to blitz often in Atlanta, especially under defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich in 2025. And he excelled in that role. Elliss was fifth in the NFL in quarterback pressure rate (17.6%) among players with at least 150 pass-rush snaps.
Elliss led the team in tackles (151) in 2024 and had five sacks to boot. He hasn’t missed a game in his three seasons in Atlanta.
Before coming to Atlanta, Elliss had just one season in New Orleans as a key player, picking up a career-high seven sacks in 2022.
Elliss is the son of former NFL defensive tackle Luther Elliss. Kaden is one of three Elliss brothers currently playing in the NFL. The others are Christian (New England Patriots) and Jonah (Denver Broncos).
ESPN’s Marc Raimondi contributed to this report.