NFL Free Agency: Saints Reportedly Bring Back Veteran Linebacker
The New Orleans Saints were busy during the first two days of the NFL’s legal negotiating period, reportedly agreeing to several new deals.
Early on, the team concentrated on improving its offense, reaching reported agreements with running back Travis Etienne Jr., guard David Edwards, and tight end Noah Fant. While the contracts have not yet been officially finalized, they are expected to become official Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET when the new league year begins.
Now the Saints appear to have added a key defensive player to the mix: linebacker Kaden Elliss. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Elliss has agreed to a deal that would bring him back to the team where he began his career.
Saints Reunite With Kaden Elliss
Rapoport reported that New Orleans has reached an agreement with the veteran linebacker on a three-year contract worth $33 million, including $23 million guaranteed. The deal, negotiated by agents Malki Kawa and Ethan Lock of First Round Management, could reportedly reach nearly $39 million in total value.
Elliss, 30, was originally selected by the Saints in the seventh round of the 2019 NFL Draft and spent his first four seasons in New Orleans. He later signed a three-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons, where he recorded three consecutive seasons with 100 or more tackles and logged over 3,000 defensive snaps.
Bringing Elliss back makes sense for the Saints, especially with linebacker Demario Davis reportedly expected to sign with the New York Jets in free agency. Elliss could help fill that gap by providing strong run defense and consistent tackling in the middle of the unit.
During his final season with the Saints in 2022, Elliss recorded 74 tackles and forced four fumbles. Earlier in his tenure with the team, he was also a major contributor on special teams. As a result, the upcoming 2026 season would mark just the second time he’s expected to take on a major defensive role in New Orleans.
It’s worth noting that free-agency agreements remain verbal until contracts are officially signed. While Elliss returning to New Orleans seems likely, nothing is finalized until the paperwork is completed. Still, the potential reunion is encouraging news for Saints fans hoping the team can contend in the NFC South in 2026. 🏈
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