As the Denver Broncos head into the 2026 offseason, most of the headlines are understandably focused on fixing an offense that’s struggled to find its identity. But if we shift our attention to the other side of the ball, there’s a familiar issue bubbling back to the surface - the linebacker position remains a revolving door, and it’s time for that to change.
Since the glory days of Super Bowl 50, Denver has cycled through linebackers without locking down a long-term solution. The talent hasn’t necessarily been lacking, but consistency and continuity have. And now, with both Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad set to hit free agency, and Dre Greenlaw’s future with the team uncertain due to a contract with no guaranteed money left, the Broncos are staring down another offseason of uncertainty at the heart of their defense.
But this time, there’s a clear answer staring them in the face - and his name is Kaden Elliss.
A Proven Producer at a Bargain Price
Elliss, who’s set to hit free agency after a strong run with the Atlanta Falcons, checks just about every box the Broncos should be looking for. He’s reliable, versatile, and productive - and he might just be one of the most underrated linebackers in the league.
Over the last four seasons, Elliss has played in every single game - a testament to both his durability and his value. In that span, he’s totaled 19.5 sacks, and over the past three years, he’s averaged 127 tackles, 4 sacks, and 9 tackles for loss per season. That’s not just solid production - that’s difference-making output from a linebacker who can impact the game in multiple ways.
At 30 going on 31, Elliss is projected to land a three-year deal worth around $9 million annually. For a team like Denver, which needs to make smart, efficient moves to rebuild its roster, that kind of value is hard to ignore. You're getting a veteran who knows how to stay on the field, consistently makes plays, and brings a level of versatility that fits perfectly in today’s NFL.
The Payton Connection - and a Family Tie
There’s also a deeper layer to the Elliss-Broncos connection that can’t be overlooked. Head coach Sean Payton knows Kaden Elliss well from their time in New Orleans - Elliss was a 7th-round pick by the Saints back in 2019, and he quickly earned a reputation as a high-effort, high-IQ player who outperformed his draft status. It’s the kind of player Payton has always valued - smart, tough, and coachable.
But there’s another recruiting chip already on the Broncos’ roster: Elliss’s younger brother, Jonah.
Jonah Elliss has emerged as one of Denver’s most promising young EDGE defenders, and the idea of reuniting the Elliss brothers in orange and blue is more than just a feel-good story. It makes football sense.
Both brothers play with relentless energy and bring a similar brand of instinctive, physical football to the field. They’re versatile, athletic, and committed - traits this Broncos defense could use more of.
A No-Brainer Move for a Defense in Need of Stability
When you look at the Broncos’ defensive depth chart, it’s clear they need more than just stopgaps. They need building blocks. Kaden Elliss gives them exactly that - a proven veteran who can step into a leadership role, produce at a high level, and help stabilize a position that’s been in flux for far too long.
If the Falcons let him walk, Denver should be first in line. The price is right.
The fit is obvious. And the upside - both on the field and in the locker room - is too good to pass up.
The Broncos have decisions to make this offseason, but when it comes to linebacker, this one feels easy. Kaden Elliss isn’t just a smart target - he might be the smartest move they can make on defense.