FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons nominated inside linebacker Kaden Elliss for the 2025 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award.
The NFL announced every team’s nomination Wednesday. The annual award recognizes individuals around the league who exemplify outstanding sportsmanship. It was created in 2014 to honor the late founding owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pro Football Hall of Fame member Art Rooney Sr.
Elliss joined the Falcons in 2023 after four seasons with the New Orleans Saints. He was named a captain in Atlanta for the first time ever this season.
The Falcons most recently snapped their five-game losing streak with a Week 12 win against the Saints in New Orleans. In the postgame locker room, Falcons inside linebacker Divine Deablo credited Elliss with rallying the defense during a tough time.
“I love Kaden,” Deablo said. “He’s my captain. He can do everything in my eyes, and I appreciate him.”
Last year, the Falcons nominated defensive tackle Grady Jarrett. Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen ultimately won. There has never been a winner from Atlanta.