Falcons Franchise Tag TE Kyle Pitts for $16M

The Atlanta Falcons are set to retain tight end Kyle Pitts for at least one more season by applying the franchise tag, a move that secures the 25-year-old playmaker on a fully guaranteed one-year contract worth approximately $16 million, according to league sources. The decision, expected to be finalized by the March 3 deadline, prevents Pitts from entering free agency and underscores the team's commitment to building around its core offensive talent.

Pitts, selected fourth overall in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Florida, emerged as a cornerstone of Atlanta's passing attack during a resurgent 2025 campaign. He recorded career highs with 88 receptions for 928 yards and five touchdowns over 17 games, earning second-team All-Pro honors. His performance marked a significant rebound after injuries and inconsistencies hampered his development. As a rookie, Pitts became just the second tight end in NFL history to surpass 1,000 receiving yards in his debut season, totaling 1,026. However, a midseason MCL tear in 2022 limited him to 10 games, and he followed with subpar outputs in 2023 and 2024, failing to reach 700 yards either year. Through his career, Pitts has amassed 284 catches for...