Making the correct moves in free agency isn’t always about landing the biggest names. While signing a top-tier player like Jessie Bates can do wonders for your team, it’s tho under-the-radar signings that ultimately determine whether free agency was a success or failure.
Take someone like linebacker Kaden Elliss, who entered the league as a late-round draft choice in 2019. Elliss had been primarily featured on special teams until the start of the 2021 season when he started to get meaningful defensive snaps. Once his playing time increased, he became a consistent factor for New Orleans’ defense.
Atlanta brought Elliss in to reunite with defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, signing the linebacker to a three-year, $21.5 million contract. Obviously, the Falcons are confident in Elliss, but there is still some risk involved. Pro Football Focus’ Brad Spielberger listed Elliss as one of five boom-or-bust signings from the 2023 free agency period:
Elliss does have a lot to prove, but the Falcons’ lack of certainty at the linebacker position warranted taking a chance on the former division rival. Atlanta hasn’t brought back Rashaan Evans, and the team has a couple of young guys in Troy Andersen and DeAngelo Malone.
The Falcons did re-sign Lorenzo Carter and Mykal Walker will return as well. Elliss has a clear path to a starting job in Atlanta. We’ll see if he can make the most of it in 2023.
