Atlanta Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier is expected to seek a contract worth around three years and $22 million in the upcoming offseason, as reported by Josh Kendall of The Athletic. However, the Falcons are likely to hesitate on meeting this figure, especially with Bijan Robinson’s second contract negotiations anticipated within the next one or two years. This timing creates financial constraints for the team’s backfield decisions.
Allgeier, who has carried the ball 676 times for 2,876 yards over four seasons with Atlanta, set the franchise rookie rushing record with 1,035 yards in 2022 after being selected in the fifth round. Despite his fantasy football struggles due to the uncertainties behind Bijan Robinson, Allgeier managed a career-high eight touchdowns in 2025 and is expected to have an expanded role, possibly on a new team, in 2026.
“more than the Falcons will be willing to pay” – Josh Kendall, The Athletic
Development of Kyle Pitts Sr. and Falcons’ Approach to His Contract
Kyle Pitts Sr., the Atlanta Falcons’ tight end, is projected to play the 2026 season under the franchise tag, according to Josh Kendall. The Falcons placed the tag on Pitts officially on a recent Tuesday, signaling a wait-and-see strategy before committing to a long-term extension. General manager Ian Cunningham commented on using the tag to buy time for evaluation.
Pitts has shown flashes of elite talent, catching 68 passes for 1,026 yards as a rookie in 2021 before experiencing a decline over the following years. He rebounded impressively in 2025, posting career highs with 88 receptions and 928 yards. However, the Falcons appear to require another strong season from Pitts in 2026 before offering a lengthy deal. The team’s confidence in Pitts may be tempered by quarterback uncertainty, as Michael Penix Jr. recovers from a severe knee injury.
“I just felt (the franchise tag) was best to give us some time to evaluate,” – Ian Cunningham, Atlanta Falcons General Manager
Bijan Robinson’s Rising Status in the Falcons’ Offense
Bijan Robinson is cementing himself as arguably the premier running back in the NFL just three years into his career. In the 2025 season, Robinson led the league with 2,298 scrimmage yards and scored 11 touchdowns over 17 games. His receiving skills have notably improved, hauling in 79 catches for 820 yards with 103 targets, a significant leap from previous seasons.
With Allgeier approaching free agency, Robinson is positioned to assume more short-yardage and goal-line duties in 2026. Whether Allgeier remains or the team brings in another running back, the Falcons’ strategy of using a running back committee might benefit Robinson’s overall workload. At 24 years old and having never missed an NFL game, Robinson projects as a top-tier fantasy asset and a steady contributor for Atlanta’s offense moving forward.
Uncertainty Surrounding Michael Penix Jr.’s Starting Role
Atlanta’s quarterback situation remains unsettled, as Michael Penix Jr. works to recover from a torn left ACL suffered in 2025. Head coach Kevin Stefanski expressed cautious optimism but declined to confirm Penix as the guaranteed starter for 2026. Stefanski emphasized patience, underscoring Penix’s focus on rehab and readiness.
Penix, a former first-round pick, underwent his third ACL surgery and faces significant pressure to prove his durability and readiness to lead the Falcons. His pre-injury performance in 2025 was underwhelming, and his injury history has lowered his value in dynasty leagues. The team’s new management is adopting a wait-and-see stance, leaving room for potential competition at quarterback.
“I’m not big on giving out positions in February. I think you guys know how I feel about Michael, and I’m excited about his trajectory. I also know he’s focused on his rehab, which is the right thing to do,” – Kevin Stefanski, Atlanta Falcons Head Coach
Falcons’ Decision to Retain Kyle Pitts Sr. with Franchise Tag
The Falcons have formally placed a non-exclusive franchise tag on Kyle Pitts Sr., a move aimed at retaining control while exploring long-term contract options. This is only the fourth time in franchise history the Falcons have used the tag, with the last recipient being Grady Jarrett in 2019.
The franchise tag allows Pitts to negotiate with other teams but ensures the Falcons have priority. The estimated franchise tag value for tight ends in 2026 stands at roughly $16 million. Pitts, who played under a fifth-year option in 2025, delivered impressive numbers as a top-five fantasy tight end, tallying 88 catches, 928 yards, and five touchdowns. His ability to replicate such success in 2026 may hinge on the recovery of quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
“is free to negotiate with other teams.” – Tori McElhaney, AtlantaFalcons.com
Veteran Kirk Cousins Likely to Be Released by Falcons
The Falcons plan to part ways with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins at the start of the new league year on March 11, as confirmed by general manager Ian Cunningham. If Cousins were to remain on the roster past that date, Atlanta would owe him $67.9 million in guaranteed money.
Trade interest appears minimal, and Cousins is expected to be cut rather than traded. At 37 years old, he lost the starting spot to Michael Penix Jr. during the 2024 season and finished 2025 as a backup until Penix’s injury. Cousins completed 61.7% of his passes over 10 games, throwing 10 touchdowns and five interceptions, but his performance was career-low in accuracy. While heading into the twilight of his career, Cousins may still find opportunities as a starter elsewhere in 2026.
Kyle Pitts Sr. Projected to Sign One-Year Deal if No Extension
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Falcons intend to utilize the franchise tag on Kyle Pitts Sr. if a long-term deal is not reached ahead of the July deadline. The one-year, fully guaranteed contract would exceed $15 million for the 25-year-old tight end.
Pitts, a former fourth overall draft pick, broke out as a fantasy star in 2025, finishing second among tight ends in half-PPR formats with career highs in receptions (88), targets (118), and touchdowns (five). Although guaranteed to be a top-tier fantasy option, his outlook remains uncertain due to quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s health challenges. Notably, Pitts’ late-season surge included 39 receptions for 469 yards and four touchdowns in the final six games of 2025.
Front Office’s Reservations on Michael Penix Jr.’s Role
Atlanta Falcons president of football operations Matt Ryan and general manager Ian Cunningham remain hesitant to label Michael Penix Jr. the definite starter as he recovers from his ACL injury. ESPN’s Marc Raimondi reported that while Penix is progressing well in rehab, the new leadership is taking a cautious approach regarding his 2026 role.
The prior coaching regime firmly backed Penix as the franchise quarterback, but after his recent injury and inconsistent performance prior, the organization is open to exploring alternatives this offseason through free agency, trade, or the draft. Penix has expressed confidence in his Week 1 readiness but must overcome durability concerns that have significantly drawn down his value in fantasy leagues.
“I’ve been up at the facility the last three weeks, and Michael’s been in there attacking that, and he’s in a good space right now, so we’re excited about where he is. But certainly, a lot of discussions for us about the entire roster,” – Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons President of Football
Tyler Allgeier’s Future with Falcons Appears Uncertain
Running back Tyler Allgeier has served as a significant component of Atlanta’s backfield since being drafted in the fifth round in 2022 out of BYU. He rushed for a total of 2,876 yards and 18 touchdowns during his four seasons, setting a franchise rookie rushing record with 1,035 yards in his debut year. Additionally, he ranks seventh in the NFL in expected points added (EPA) per carry among running backs with over 250 carries in that timeframe and is one of only two backs with over 500 carries who have not fumbled.
Despite his contributions, Allgeier’s continued presence in Atlanta is doubtful. Josh Kendall of The Athletic noted the organization’s difficulty in envisioning a path to retain him given Bijan Robinson’s status as the franchise’s lead back. While Allgeier is interested in returning, the Falcons are unlikely to offer the kind of salary befitting a starting running back. His 2025 output included 514 yards and a career-best eight rushing touchdowns on 143 carries, positioning him well for a lucrative free agency market. His fantasy value could increase substantially should he join a new team with more opportunity.
“it’s hard to imagine how Atlanta will be able to bring him back.” – Josh Kendall, The Athletic
Allgeier’s Role and Value in Falcons’ Offense for 2025
Over the 2025 season, Tyler Allgeier established his own value behind the star running back Bijan Robinson, often displaying a boom-or-bust fantasy profile that rendered him a risky RB3 or flex play. Unlike many running backs, his usage was not heavily game-script or matchup-dependent, leading to considerable unpredictability.
Allgeier participated in all 17 games and finished with 514 rushing yards and eight touchdowns, setting personal bests in scoring. He also contributed 14 receptions for 96 yards, primarily capitalizing on goal-line opportunities vacated by Robinson. In PPR leagues, he ranked as the 39th overall running back and has maintained a top-43 finish in every NFL season so far. His value is enhanced by Robinson’s high availability, but Allgeier is widely regarded as an elite handcuff with significant upside if his teammate misses time.
For dynasty league managers, Allgeier remains a hold for most, but an important buy for those who roster Bijan Robinson due to his standalone potential and backup insurance.
Wide Receiver Drake London’s Potential Contract Extension
Josh Kendall from The Athletic reports that wide receiver Drake London might secure a new contract with the Falcons this offseason if general manager Ian Cunningham continues his proactive approach from his previous tenure in Chicago. London signed a four-year deal worth $21.53 million in May 2022, with the Falcons exercising a $16.82 million team option for the 2026 season last April.
The 24-year-old receiver has proven to be one of the league’s emerging elite wideouts, catching 168 passes on 270 targets for 2,190 yards and 16 touchdowns across 29 games. London likely envisions a contract in the ballpark of $30 million annually, though Atlanta may aim to negotiate closer to $25 million per year. Regardless, he remains a crucial figure in the Falcons’ long-term plans.
“could get a new deal this offseason.” – Josh Kendall, The Athletic
