FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons have officially designated Kyle Pitts Sr. with the franchise tag, marking a rare move for the team as only the fourth time in franchise history this designation has been applied. The last Falcons player to receive the franchise tag was defensive tackle Grady Jarrett in 2019. Pitts now joins Jarrett, punter Michael Koenen (2009), and Brent Grimes (2012) as the only players in Falcons history to be tagged.
General Manager Terry Fontenot confirmed the move on the day of the NFL Scouting Combine, emphasizing that the decision was finalized promptly following discussions on Radio Row. The franchise tag placed on Pitts is officially a non-exclusive franchise tag.
Understanding the Non-Exclusive Franchise Tag and Team Strategy
The non-exclusive franchise tag allows Kyle Pitts Sr. to negotiate with other NFL teams. However, the Falcons retain the right of first refusal, meaning they can match any offer Pitts receives within five days. If the Falcons choose not to match, they will receive compensation in the form of two first-round draft picks.
“is free to negotiate with other teams. The player receives a one-year deal with a salary set at the greater of (a) the Cap Percentage Average for his position OR (b) 120% of his Prior Year Salary. … Teams that use the non-exclusive franchise tag hold the right of first refusal. If a designated player signs an offer sheet with another team, the player’s previous team has five days to match the offer sheet. Should it decide not to, the player’s original team shall be entitled to draft-choice compensation equivalent to two first-round picks.”
— NFL League Explanation
Fontenot described the franchise tag as the appropriate approach for the Falcons at this moment, especially given his recent arrival in Atlanta on January 29. It grants the organization time to evaluate Kyle Pitts Sr.’s long-term fit within their roster, as well as the broader strategy concerning the tight end’s role on the team.
“use the mechanisms provided by the league”
— Terry Fontenot, General Manager
Fontenot emphasized the club’s commitment to retaining top talent, making it clear the Falcons are not inclined to part ways with a highly skilled player like Pitts.
“We’re not in the business of letting go really good players,”
— Terry Fontenot, General Manager
Timing and Implications of the Tag Ahead of Free Agency
The Falcons acted quickly after the NFL’s franchise and transition tag window opened last week. While teams have until March 3 to assign these tags, Atlanta chose to apply the franchise tag to Pitts well before the deadline. This move prevents Pitts from entering unrestricted free agency when the league year begins on March 11.
Under NFL rules, the franchise tag locks in a one-year deal between the team and player, with both sides able to negotiate a long-term contract until July 15. Failing an agreement by that date means Pitts would play the 2024 season under the tagged contract only.
Financially, the estimated value for a tight end tagged in 2026 is roughly $16 million, according to data from Spotrac. While the number for this year’s tag was not specified, it offers an indication of the Falcons’ valuation of Pitts as a critical piece for the team’s offense moving forward.
Future Outlook for Kyle Pitts Sr. and the Falcons
The decision to place the franchise tag on Kyle Pitts Sr. signals that the Falcons view him as a central figure in their roster plans amid uncertainty surrounding free agency. With time allotted to assess his development and how he fits within their evolving roster, the Falcons have bought themselves flexibility while maintaining control over one of their most talented players.
As negotiations continue, both sides are expected to engage in talks aimed at securing a longer-term contract before the July deadline. The outcome will impact the Falcons’ offensive strategy and roster construction for the seasons ahead, highlighting the significance of this cautious yet strategic move by the organization.
