Posted on Feb 23

Falcons to franchise tag TE Pitts, securing star tight end for another season

Posted Feb 23, 2026

The Atlanta Falcons are placing the franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts Sr., securing one of the league's elite talents for at least one more season.

Why it matters: This strategic move underscores the Falcons' commitment to maintaining a key offensive weapon while navigating the complexities of contract negotiations in the current NFL landscape.

With Pitts set to earn approximately $16,319,000 under the franchise tag, the Falcons ensure they retain his services during a critical phase as they look to solidify their offensive identity.

What’s new: The franchise designation comes after a notable rebound year for Pitts, who recorded 88 receptions for 928 yards and five touchdowns.

His standout performance included a historic game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he achieved 11 catches for 166 yards and three touchdowns—an accomplishment unmatched by any tight end since Shannon Sharpe in 1996.

By the numbers: Pitts has demonstrated significant potential since being drafted fourth overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.

In his rookie season, he became the first tight end to surpass 1,000 receiving yards since Mike Ditka in 1961, finishing with 1,026 yards on 68 catches.

Yes, but: Despite his impressive statistics, Pitts has faced challenges, including injuries that limited his production in subsequent seasons.

After suffering a torn MCL in 2022, he did not exceed 700 yards in either 2023 or 2024 and has played with six different quarterbacks over five seasons, complicating his ability to find consistency.

What to watch: As the Falcons navigate their offseason strategy, the focus will be on how they can enhance their offensive scheme around Pitts, utilizing his unique skill set effectively within their formations.

Given the rise of tight ends in modern offenses, particularly those utilizing spread and West Coast principles, the Falcons may seek to leverage Pitts’ versatility to create mismatches against defenses.

The bottom line: The decision to franchise tag Pitts not only secures a talented player but also speaks volumes about the Falcons' ambitions moving forward.

As they aim to build a competitive roster, keeping a dynamic playmaker like Pitts is crucial for achieving offensive success in a rapidly evolving league.

Falcons to franchise tag TE Pitts, securing star tight end for another season

Alex Parker

Posted Feb 23, 2026

The Atlanta Falcons are placing the franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts Sr., securing one of the league's elite talents for at least one more season.

With Pitts set to earn approximately $16,319,000 under the franchise tag, the Falcons ensure they retain his services during a critical phase as they look to solidify their offensive identity.

What’s new: The franchise designation comes after a notable rebound year for Pitts, who recorded 88 receptions for 928 yards and five touchdowns.

His standout performance included a historic game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he achieved 11 catches for 166 yards and three touchdowns—an accomplishment unmatched by any tight end since Shannon Sharpe in 1996.

By the numbers: Pitts has demonstrated significant potential since being drafted fourth overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.

In his rookie season, he became the first tight end to surpass 1,000 receiving yards since Mike Ditka in 1961, finishing with 1,026 yards on 68 catches.

Yes, but: Despite his impressive statistics, Pitts has faced challenges, including injuries that limited his production in subsequent seasons.

After suffering a torn MCL in 2022, he did not exceed 700 yards in either 2023 or 2024 and has played with six different quarterbacks over five seasons, complicating his ability to find consistency.

Given the rise of tight ends in modern offenses, particularly those utilizing spread and West Coast principles, the Falcons may seek to leverage Pitts’ versatility to create mismatches against defenses.

The bottom line: The decision to franchise tag Pitts not only secures a talented player but also speaks volumes about the Falcons' ambitions moving forward.

As they aim to build a competitive roster, keeping a dynamic playmaker like Pitts is crucial for achieving offensive success in a rapidly evolving league.