The Atlanta Falcons plan to apply the franchise tag to tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. for the 2026 season, according to sources cited by Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. If a long-term contract agreement is not reached by July’s deadline, Pitts will receive a fully guaranteed one-year deal valued at over $15 million. The 25-year-old former University of Florida standout, selected fourth overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, has delivered strong performances that justify the team’s move.
Kyle Pitts’ Performance Highlights and Fantasy Football Impact
In his fifth NFL season, Pitts significantly improved, becoming a top target for fantasy football managers throughout 2025. He recorded career-highs in catches (88), targets (118), and touchdowns (five), accumulating 928 receiving yards over 17 games—finishing as the second-ranked tight end in half-PPR scoring. Pitts gained momentum in the final six games of the year, with 39 receptions, 469 yards, and four touchdowns during that period, cementing his status as a reliable TE1 option for the upcoming season.
Factors Affecting Pitts’ Outlook for 2026
Despite his strong finish in 2025, some uncertainty remains around Pitts, mainly due to the health status of quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who has knee issues. The Falcons’ offensive dynamics could shift depending on Penix’s availability, which would influence Pitts’ consistency. Fantasy managers and analysts will closely watch these developments as the offseason unfolds.
Significance of the Franchise Tag and Future Prospects
The Falcons’ decision to use the franchise tag on Kyle Pitts underscores his importance to the team’s offense and their desire to retain him amid ongoing contract discussions. This move secures Pitts for at least one more year while allowing both sides additional time to negotiate a long-term deal. For Pitts, maintaining or exceeding his 2025 performance will be critical to securing a lucrative extension and continuing his rise as one of the NFL’s premier tight ends.
