Jan. 30, 2026, 3:49 p.m. CT

The Minnesota Vikings are in a unique situation this offseason. They have questions surrounding the quarterback, a defense with a few holes, and not a ton of money to go make some big moves in free agency. There is always value to be found, and finding those under-the-radar players is vital in a team’s performance the following season. 

PFF releases an article every offseason of players each NFL team should pursue in free agency, and the player highlighted for the Vikings is Atlanta Falcons linebacker Kaden Elliss. Elliss, 30, has been a quiet stalwart for the Falcons over the last three years, having a combined 75.5 PFF grade and 140 total stops. He finished last season with 59 total tackles and 3.5 sacks. With the potential departure of Eric Wilson, Elliss could step in seamlessly and take over the middle of the field for this defense.

Kaden Elliss also thrives in rushing the passer, but needs more opportunities. His 84.8 PFF grade last season was the third-best among qualifying linebackers since 2022. Elliss, paired with Andrew Van Ginkel, Dallas Turner, and Jonathan Greenard, makes for a very quality pass rush, and the Minnesota Vikings are expected to draft another pass rusher in the 2026 NFL Draft.

If Minnesota lands Elliss, this defense could be backfiring on all cylinders in 2026. 

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