Kaden Elliss has rapidly developed into an essential figure for the Atlanta Falcons defense over the last few seasons. His impressive performances have made him a cornerstone linebacker, helping the team strengthen its defensive foundation. As the 2024 season progresses, Elliss’s value to the Falcons continues to grow, placing the team in a challenging position concerning his contract.
Impending Contract Decisions and Financial Stakes
The Falcons face a critical decision point as Elliss’s current contract nears its end this season. Without a new agreement, the team could deploy the franchise tag on him in the 2026 offseason. This franchise tag for linebackers is expected to cost close to $28 million, reflecting Elliss’s rising worth while giving the Falcons additional time to negotiate a longer-term deal. This scenario underscores the difficult balancing act between financial commitments and securing top talent.
Elliss’s Breakout 2024 Season
This year, Kaden Elliss achieved a career-best total of 151 tackles, establishing himself firmly among the NFL’s elite linebackers. He also added five sacks, showcasing his ability to disrupt offenses in multiple ways. Known for his exceptional tackling and quickness as a blitzer, Elliss has become a versatile defensive asset, with the Falcons creatively maximizing his skill set to great effect.
Looking Ahead: Strategic Importance of Retaining Elliss
If Elliss maintains or surpasses his current level of performance, the Falcons will likely face the necessity of offering him a substantial contract or employing the costly franchise tag. His presence is poised to play a pivotal role in the team’s defensive plans, and keeping him could be crucial for the Falcons’ competitive prospects. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges NFL teams face in managing talent amid evolving league dynamics.
“Kaden Elliss has emerged as one of the best blitzers in the league, a testament to the Falcons’ creative usage of his talents.” —Unnamed Analyst
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Kaden Elliss adopted?
A. The Elliss family includes five biological children, one of whom is Kaden, and seven adopted children, like Colsen. Kaden’s background and family story led him to team up with Georgia Kids Belong. This partnership is part of the Falcons’ My Cause My Cleats game on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET against the Los Angeles Chargers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Q. Who is Kaden Elliss father?
A. He’s the son of Luther Elliss, who used to play defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions. He played college football at the University of Idaho for the Vandals. He also has three younger brothers—Christian, Noah, and Jonah—who are all professional football players.