NEW ORLEANS, La. (WGNO) – Of the Saints roster, it’s been chatter and speculation during OTAs about who steps up in the leadership role – more so, on the defensive side of the ball.
As reported recently, Demario Davis left big shoes to fill, and now, with his departure, head coach Kellen Moore is anxious to see who “organically” becomes “the next man up”.
The names swirling around include Justin Reid, who was a captain in 2025, Pete Werner and now Kaden Elliss in his return to the Saints.
After his first go-round in New Orleans, Elliss played three seasons with the Falcons.
Last season, Elliss started in all 17 games, recording 107 tackles, 3.5 sacks and a career high of 6 pass break-ups.
Elliss says of course he’s excited to be back in the Black n’ Gold and though Davis’ leadership is incomparable, his leadership style will be his own.
“”He’s a special player, special man, and special leader but that’s not what it is. I’m coming here to be Kaden Elliss and being me. I’ve got great people around me – great teammates and great coaches and the leadership will be dispersed around the team. Demario has a special voice and that’s not what I’m here for.”
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