Falcons take important step with Kyle Pitts’ franchise tag decision

Atlanta’s Plans for Kyle Pitts

The Atlanta Falcons are focusing on developing talent around Kyle Pitts. He was the fourth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft and, after four seasons that didn’t quite meet expectations, finally started to shine in 2025, right before the end of his rookie contract.

According to NFL Network, Atlanta has decided to franchise tag Pitts. They’re also aiming to secure him with a long-term deal, which, honestly, feels like a significant commitment for the future.

However, this big investment might complicate things for the Falcons as they try to build a competitive roster around him. The tight end’s franchise tag for the upcoming 2026 season is projected to be in the $15 million to $16 million range, which is quite hefty.

Pitts is likely aiming for a contract similar to, or even better than, the one Jake Ferguson signed with the Cowboys last year. Ferguson inked a four-year deal worth $50 million, with about $30 million guaranteed.

This contract stands out as the fourth-highest amongst active tight ends, and its annual cap hit, at $12.5 million, is noteworthy. So, the franchise tag, as many know, will be based on the average of the five biggest contracts for tight ends.

Last season, Pitts actually ranked second in receiving yards among NFL tight ends with 928. It’s impressive but seems like many teams are eyeing Pitts, perhaps even the Giants, who have some cap space as they focus on building around their star quarterback, Jackson Dart.

The Falcons stumbled a bit last season, finishing tied for first in the NFC South with an 8-9 record, but they lost the tiebreaker to Tampa Bay and Carolina. A bit of good news about Pitts could really change the narrative this offseason.

It’s worth noting that Atlanta made a bold move by trading a 2026 first-round draft pick to the Rams, which allowed them to select pass rusher James Pierce Jr. last year. However, Pierce Jr. is currently facing serious legal issues, having been arrested recently on multiple felonies, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.