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ATLANTA, GEORGIA – NOVEMBER 03: Kaden Elliss #55 of the Atlanta Falcons reacts during the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on November 03, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
Atlanta Falcons inside linebacker Kaden Elliss has established himself as one of the better defenders in the NFL. Kaden has become one of the Falcons’ most reliable and versatile defenders. Once a seventh-round draft pick out of the University of Idaho, Elliss has risen far beyond expectations to establish himself as a cornerstone of the Falcons’ defense.
In a recent article, Bill Barnwell listed Elliss as one of his luxury players in 2025. He selected him for his ability to blitz, as he is one of the best off-ball linebackers in the game. He continues to add advanced pass schemes and blitz packages to his repertoire, giving defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich more flexibility.
In Barnwell’s articles he stated that “Elliss’ athleticism and timing have made him a valuable player on “green dog” rushes, where a defender adds onto a pass rush if his coverage responsibility stays in as part of the pass protection unit. Coach Raheem Morris also had some success using him on twists last season, including a snap in which he was the lead rusher in a twist/stunt and managed to get around the guard assigned to block him and strip-sack Drew Lock”.
Elliss Knows How to Rush the Passer
Despite a sturdy frame, Ellis moves at a sideline-to-sideline pace. He can chase down running backs, scramble in coverage, or leak into the flat to make open-field tackles He recorded 151 tackles which was the highest on the team and among league leaders in the league. He also had 5 sacks, 8 tackles for loss, 16 QB hits, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery.
As the Falcons build around him, his continued health, leadership, and growth will be pivotal for the team. He was a bright spot for one of the league’s worst defenses in the NFL. He scans offenses, communicates adjustments on the fly, and transitions effortlessly between roles. On any given play, he could be blitzing gap-to-gap, mirroring tight ends across the middle, or plugging holes against the run.
Elliss Brings Versatility
Kaden isn’t just a one-trick pass rusher. He’s a true three-down linebacker who can drop into coverage when needed, stuff the run with physicality, and act as a spy on mobile quarterbacks. His instincts allow him to diagnose plays quickly, and his athleticism lets him finish them.
He is constantly diagnosing plays before they develop, reacting quickly, and making impact tackles. Whether he’s lining up on the edge or dropping into the middle zone, Elliss brings a rare awareness that allows him to be in the right place at the right time.
With another year left on his current contract, Elliss is poised to continue leading the Falcons’ defense. His durability, work ethic, and ability to impact games in multiple ways make him a foundational piece as Atlanta looks to become a contender in the NFC South.
Horace Shivers Horace Shivers is a seasoned sports journalist along with being a NFL, college football and NBA insider. He is serving as a writer at Heavy Sports. With a career spanning over 3 years, Shivers has established himself as a prominent voice in sports media, known for his in-depth reporting and engaging storytelling. More about Horace Shivers
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