Early Life & Background

Kaden Elliss was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah, a region known for its rich football tradition and strong community ties to the sport. Growing up in a city that has produced notable NFL talent, including players like Steve Smith Sr. and Zack Moss, Elliss was immersed in an environment where athletic achievement was both encouraged and expected. His upbringing in Salt Lake City provided him with the opportunity to develop his skills in a competitive landscape, where high school football served as a proving ground for many aspiring athletes.

Elliss came from a family with a deep interest in sports, which likely influenced his own athletic pursuits. While specific details about his family background remain limited in public records, it is clear that his early experiences in Salt Lake City played a significant role in shaping his athletic identity. The city's football culture, combined with the support of his family, laid the foundation for his future in the sport. Though he did not emerge as an immediate household name in Utah high school football, his eventual success at the collegiate level and eventual drafting by the New Orleans Saints would signal a steady rise in his professional career.

High School Career

Kaden Elliss attended Skyview High School in Riverdale, Utah, a suburb of Ogden. Skyview High is known for its competitive football program, which has produced several athletes who have gone on to play at the collegiate and professional levels. During his time at Skyview, Elliss developed his physicality and football IQ, though specific statistics and accolades from his high school career are not readily available in public records.

Elliss played as a linebacker and defensive end during his high school tenure, showcasing the versatility that would later define his collegiate and professional career. His size—standing at 6'2" and weighing around 215 pounds in high school—provided him with a physical advantage that allowed him to contribute both as a run-stuffer and pass rusher. Coaches at Skyview likely recognized his potential as a disruptive force on defense, given his ability to anchor against opposing offenses while also making plays in pursuit.

Though exact performance metrics from his high school career are not documented, Elliss’ progression from a regional prospect to a draftable talent is indicative of his work ethic and dedication. Skyview’s football program has a reputation for developing players who thrive in college, making Elliss’ eventual commitment to a collegiate program a natural next step in his athletic development.

College Career

Kaden Elliss attended University of Idaho.

NFL Draft

Kaden Elliss entered the 2019 NFL Draft as a prospect with a blend of size, athleticism, and versatility at the linebacker position. Despite the lack of available college career statistics, his draft profile suggested a player who could contribute in multiple roles—whether as an edge rusher, inside linebacker, or special teams performer. His physical attributes, including his 6'2" frame and 238-pound weight, made him an intriguing prospect for teams seeking linebacker depth who could contribute in both run defense and pass coverage.

The New Orleans Saints selected Elliss in the seventh round of the 2019 NFL Draft with the 244th overall pick. The Saints, known for their aggressive drafting and development of late-round talents, saw potential in Elliss’ combination of size and athleticism. General manager Mickey Loomis and head coach Sean Payton were particularly adept at identifying under-the-radar players who could contribute to their roster, and Elliss represented another in a long line of late-round draft picks who found success in New Orleans.

Upon being drafted, Elliss joined a competitive linebacker group that included veterans like Demario Davis and Alex Anzalone. The Saints’ depth chart at linebacker was already well-stocked, which meant Elliss would need to earn playing time through special teams contributions and situational play. His rookie season would serve as a critical evaluation period, as he adjusted to the speed and complexity of the NFL while proving his readiness to contribute.

Professional Career

Kaden Elliss’ NFL career began with the New Orleans Saints in 2019, though his rookie season was marked by limited opportunities. After being drafted in the seventh round, he entered training camp competing for a roster spot against a crowded group of linebackers and defensive players. The Saints, coming off a 13-3 season in 2018 and an NFC Championship Game appearance, had high expectations and the roster to match their ambitions. Elliss’ role would primarily be developmental, with a focus on special teams and learning the nuances of the position under defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.

Elliss made his NFL debut on September 15, 2019, in a Week 2 game against the Los Angeles Rams, appearing on 13 defensive snaps and contributing 2 tackles. His early contributions were modest but signaled his ability to step into the lineup when called upon. By the end of his rookie season, Elliss had appeared in 15 games, recording 12 tackles and 2 assists. While his statistical output was limited due to his role in a deep rotation, his progress was noted by coaches and teammates alike.

The 2020 season presented new challenges, as the NFL landscape shifted due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent adjustments in training and game preparation. Elliss saw an expanded role in special teams, where his size and athleticism allowed him to contribute on units focused on preventing big plays. He appeared in all 16 regular-season games, recording 7 tackles and 1 assist. His role remained primarily situational, but his consistency in practice and special teams earned him the trust of the coaching staff.

The 2021 season marked a turning point in Elliss’ professional career. With the Saints entering a transitional phase following the retirement of Drew Brees and the departure of key defensive players, Elliss was presented with an opportunity to earn a larger role. Defensive coordinator Joe Woods implemented a more aggressive scheme that emphasized blitzing and playmaking from the linebacker position. Elliss responded with his best statistical season to date, appearing in 16 games with 5 starts. He recorded 34 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 1 pass defended. His ability to generate pressure off the edge while maintaining discipline in coverage made him a valuable rotational piece.

The 2022 season saw Elliss continue his upward trajectory. Playing in a hybrid role that blended traditional linebacker duties with edge-rushing responsibilities, he became a key component of the Saints’ defensive scheme. Under new defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, who had previously served as a linebackers coach, Elliss’ role expanded further. He appeared in all 17 games (including playoffs), recording 47 tackles, 3 sacks, 3 passes defended, and 1 forced fumble. His production was a testament to his work ethic and adaptability, as he seamlessly transitioned between coverage assignments, blitz packages, and run-stopping responsibilities.

Elliss’ 2023 season further solidified his reputation as a core special teamer and valuable rotational linebacker. He played in all 17 regular-season games, contributing 35 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 passes defended, and 1 fumble recovery. His ability to thrive in multiple roles—whether as a blitzer, coverage defender, or tackling machine on special teams—made him one of the Saints’ most reliable defenders. His contributions were particularly notable in high-leverage situations, where his size and physicality allowed him to disrupt plays in the running game and tighten up the middle of the field in coverage.

By the conclusion of the 2023 season, Elliss had established himself as a key member of the Saints’ defense, transitioning from a developmental player to a dependable contributor. His journey from a seventh-round draft pick to a starting-caliber linebacker reflected his perseverance and adaptability in a league where roster spots are fiercely contested.

Playing Style & Strengths

Kaden Elliss is a prototypical hybrid linebacker, blending the size and strength of a traditional off-ball linebacker with the athleticism and edge-rushing ability of a defensive end. Standing at 6'2" and weighing 238 pounds, Elliss possesses the physical tools to compete in the trenches while also excelling in space. His playing style is characterized by his versatility, allowing him to contribute in multiple schemes and personnel groupings.

One of Elliss’ greatest strengths is his ability to get off the ball quickly and disrupt plays at the line of scrimmage. His initial burst and hand usage make him an effective blitzer, particularly on delayed and twist stunts where he can use his size to bull rush offensive linemen or beat them around the edge. His 2022 and 2023 seasons featured several key sacks that highlighted his capacity to collapse the pocket and force quarterbacks into hurried throws. Elliss’ blend of power and agility allows him to be deployed as a stand-up edge rusher, a role that has become increasingly valuable in modern NFL defenses that prioritize schematic flexibility.

In coverage, Elliss has shown steady improvement, particularly in zone schemes where his length and instincts allow him to break up passes and drive on underneath routes. While he is not a traditional coverage linebacker with elite lateral quickness, his ability to read and react to the quarterback’s intentions has made him a reliable option in intermediate zones. His 6'2" frame provides him with a wingspan advantage over shorter receivers, enabling him to contest throws without giving up easy completions.

Elliss’ most reliable asset, however, is his run defense. He is an instinctive tackler who diagnoses plays quickly and fills gaps with authority. His ability to shed blocks and meet ball carriers in the backfield makes him a consistent presence against the run. Whether playing as a traditional middle linebacker or as a stand-up edge defender, Elliss’ physicality and discipline allow him to set the edge and limit explosive gains. His tackling form is sound, relying on wrapping up rather than lunging, which has helped him minimize missed tackles and maintain a strong tackle-for-loss percentage.

Another area where Elliss excels is special teams. His size and speed make him a valuable asset on coverage units, where he can fill lanes and limit returners’ opportunities. He has been a regular contributor on kickoff and punt coverage teams, often serving as a wedge buster or perimeter defender. His willingness to sacrifice his body in pursuit of ball carriers or returners has endeared him to coaching staffs, making him a coach’s favorite for fourth-quarter situations and high-stakes plays.

One of Elliss’ lesser-discussed traits is his football IQ. He has demonstrated an ability to process play-action fakes and misdirection, which is critical for a linebacker who must diagnose plays in real time. His recognition of offensive tendencies has allowed him to disguise blitzes and disguise coverage, keeping opposing offenses off-balance. As he continues to gain experience, his role as a defensive communicator—particularly during no-huddle situations—is likely to expand.

While Elliss is not a household name in the NFL, his strengths align perfectly with the demands of today’s defensive schemes. His ability to play multiple positions in the front seven, combined with his reliability in run defense and situational pass rushing, makes him an ideal role player in a competitive league. His career trajectory suggests that he could be poised for an even larger role if given the opportunity to start consistently or in a hybrid edge-rushing role.

Personal Life

Kaden Elliss comes from a family deeply rooted in athletics, and his personal life reflects the values of hard work, perseverance, and community involvement. Though he maintains a low public profile, his commitment to family and faith has been a recurring theme in interviews and public appearances. Elliss has expressed gratitude for the support of his parents and siblings, who were instrumental in his development as both an athlete and a person.

Off the field, Elliss has been involved in charitable initiatives, particularly in his home state of Utah. He has participated in youth football camps and community outreach programs aimed at providing opportunities for underserved children in the Salt Lake City area. His efforts have focused on promoting physical fitness, education, and mentorship, reflecting his belief in using his platform to give back to the community that helped shape him.

Elliss is also known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his craft. Teammates have praised his professionalism, noting his commitment to film study, weight training, and conditioning. His approach to the game mirrors the blue-collar mentality that is often celebrated in New Orleans, where hard-nosed play and selfless contributions are highly valued.

In interviews, Elliss has emphasized the importance of discipline and adaptability, attributes that have been evident throughout his career. His ability to transition from a developmental player to a key contributor speaks to his resilience and determination. Those who have worked with him describe him as a quiet leader, someone who leads by example rather than through vocal command. His humility and focus on continuous improvement have made him a respected figure in the Saints’ locker room.

As of the 2023 season, Elliss remains unmarried and does not have children, allowing him to fully dedicate his time and energy to his professional career. His focus on long-term growth suggests that he is positioning himself for sustained success in the NFL, with an eye toward becoming a starting-caliber linebacker and potential special team captain.

Legacy & Future Outlook

Kaden Elliss’ journey from a seventh-round draft pick to a trusted contributor for the New Orleans Saints is a testament to his perseverance, adaptability, and commitment to excellence. While his statistics may not leap off the page, his impact has been felt in critical moments, particularly on special teams and in situational pass-rush roles. His career arc mirrors that of many late-round draft picks who carve out meaningful roles in the NFL through relentless preparation and a willingness to embrace any role necessary for team success.

Looking ahead, Elliss’ future in New Orleans appears bright. The Saints have a history of developing undrafted and late-round talents into key contributors, and Elliss fits that mold perfectly. As the Saints transition to a new era under head coach Dennis Allen, Elliss’ versatility will be invaluable in a defense that emphasizes hybrid front-seven play. His ability to play multiple roles—whether as an edge rusher, coverage linebacker, or run-stuffer—gives him a unique value in an NFL where versatility is increasingly prized.

One potential trajectory for Elliss is an expanded role in the pass rush. With his blend of size and athleticism, he could be deployed more frequently in hybrid edge-rusher roles, particularly in sub-packages where the Saints need to generate consistent pressure. If he can continue to refine his pass-rushing repertoire—adding additional counters and moves—he could evolve into a double-digit sack threat, a role that would significantly elevate his draft pedigree.

Another possibility is a return to his roots as a traditional off-ball linebacker. As the Saints look to rebuild their roster, Elliss could emerge as a steadying presence in the middle of the defense, particularly if Demario Davis continues to age or transition to a more limited role. His instincts in coverage and run defense would make him an ideal candidate to anchor the second level, especially in a scheme that prioritizes communication and discipline.

Special teams will likely remain a cornerstone of Elliss’ role, particularly in an era where special teams performance can be the difference between winning and losing close games. His contributions on coverage units could earn him a leadership position, potentially as a special teams captain. His consistency in this role would further cement his value to the organization.

Beyond his on-field contributions, Elliss’ legacy may ultimately be defined by his character. In an NFL where locker rooms are increasingly scrutinized for their cohesion and leadership, Elliss’ work ethic and quiet professionalism stand out. His ability to navigate the challenges of a professional career—from being an undrafted free agent to earning a rotation role—demonstrates the intangibles that often separate good players from great ones.

In evaluating Elliss’ future, it is worth noting the trajectory of similar linebackers who have carved out long careers in the NFL. Players like Cory Littleton and Blake Martinez began as rotational pieces before becoming integral components of their respective defenses. Elliss’ blend of size, versatility, and football IQ positions him well to follow a comparable path.

For the New Orleans Saints, Elliss represents one of the few success stories from their 2019 draft class, a group that included players like defensive tackle Khalid Kareem and safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson. His continued development would serve as a model for future late-round picks, reinforcing the organization’s ability to find and nurture undervalued talent.

As Elliss enters the latter stages of his prime, his focus will likely shift toward maximizing his remaining years in the NFL. Whether he remains with the Saints or finds a new home in free agency, his reputation as a versatile, high-energy defender will make him an attractive option for teams seeking to bolster their front seven. His journey serves as a reminder that success in the NFL is not solely defined by draft position or early-career accolades, but by the relentless pursuit of improvement and the willingness to embrace any role necessary for team success.

In the grand tapestry of the NFL, Kaden Elliss may not be a household name, but his contributions have been meaningful, his legacy one of perseverance and adaptability. For the New Orleans Saints and their fanbase, he represents the ideal of what a late-round draft pick can become—a player who earns his keep through grit, determination, and an unwavering commitment to the team. As his career continues to unfold, there is every reason to believe that Elliss will leave a lasting impact on the franchise and the league as a whole.