On Tuesday, the Atlanta Falcons officially applied the franchise tag to tight end Kyle Pitts, ensuring the talented player remains with the team for the upcoming season. This move prevents Pitts from entering unrestricted free agency, securing him on the Falcons’ roster for another year with a contract valued at approximately $16 million.
ESPN had reported on Monday that the Falcons intended to use the franchise tag on Pitts, who had been preparing to explore options as a free agent during the offseason. Falcons general manager Ian Cunningham confirmed early Tuesday that finalizing the franchise tag on Pitts was imminent.
Pitts delivered one of his strongest professional campaigns in the previous season, hauling in 88 catches for 928 yards and contributing five touchdowns. His performance earned him a spot on the Associated Press All-Pro Second Team, highlighting his rising status in the NFL.
Kyle Pitts’ Role Amid New Falcons Leadership
As Kyle Pitts returns to the Falcons, he will work under the direction of new head coach Kevin Stefanski, who has emphasized the critical importance of tight ends in a team’s offensive strategy. Stefanski noted the versatility of the position and the strategic advantage it offers, given tight ends’ ability to line up in multiple formations to challenge opposing defenses.
I love the position. I coached it. It was my first position to coach on the offensive staff, was tight ends there with the Vikings under coach (Mike) Zimmer,
Stefanski said.
I love the position because of the versatility that it provides an offense. And you’ve seen it around the league. This is nothing new or earth-shattering, but tight ends that can line up all over make life hard on a defense. Whether you can line them up outside, in the backfield, in line, you name it, we love versatility at that position.
Obviously, Kyle’s somebody that we’ll talk at length more about when it comes to those types of roster conversations, but the position itself is something that we feel really very strongly about.
The Falcons selected Pitts with the fourth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. He had an impressive rookie year, earning a Pro Bowl selection after catching 68 passes for 1,026 yards and scoring one touchdown. Over five seasons, Pitts has amassed 284 receptions, 3,579 yards, and 15 touchdowns, establishing himself as a key offensive weapon.
Context on the Falcons’ Use of the Franchise Tag
Placing the franchise tag on Pitts marks the fourth occasion the Falcons have used this strategic contractual tool with a player. The tag guarantees the Falcons retain exclusive rights to Pitts for at least one more season, offering the team time to negotiate a longer-term agreement or assess Pitts’ fit within their offensive system.
General manager Ian Cunningham’s proactive confirmation of the tag underscores the Falcons’ commitment to building around their young, dynamic tight end as they transition under Stefanski’s leadership.
Implications for the Falcons and Kyle Pitts’ Future
By securing Pitts with the franchise tag, the Falcons maintain a vital piece of their offensive lineup as they aim to improve their performance this season. Pitts’ unique skill set and production make him a foundational figure in the team’s plans, and his partnership with Stefanski could enhance his impact further.
Looking ahead, the franchise tag provides the Falcons breathing room to negotiate a potential long-term deal while continuing to evaluate Pitts’ progression. For Pitts, the upcoming season will be an opportunity to solidify his role and maximize his value within the NFL landscape.
