News - The Falcons retain Kyle Pitts using the Franchise Tag

In a decisive move to secure their star tight end, the Atlanta Falcons have officially placed the franchise tag on Kyle Pitts, ensuring his stay for the 2026 season with a compensation of approximately $16.5 million. This decision comes as Pitts, 25, was on the verge of free agency post his fifth-year option completion in 2025. The tag's value is calculated as an average of the top five salaries in his role—a testament to Pitts' elite standing within the league. Ian Cunningham, the new general manager for the Falcons, emphasized the team's commitment to retaining talent, stating, 'We're not in the business of letting go of really good players,' during an interview on 92.9 The Game. Both parties are now on a timeline, with a deadline set for July 15, to potentially finalize a long-term contract that would avert the need for Pitts to compete under the one-year tag. The use of the franchise tag on Pitts marks a rare move for the franchise, having only exercised this option a handful of times in its history—following similar decisions with players like punter Michael Koenen in 2009, defensive back Brent Grimes in 2012, and defensive tackle Grady Jarrett in 2019. The NFL has a cut-off date of March 3 for teams to make these binding choices for the 2026 season. Kyle Pitts' performance has been nothing short of exceptional. His 2025 season saw him earn All-Pro second team honors, with career-high contributions that included 88 receptions and five touchdowns. These achievements underscore his vital role in the Falcons' offensive lineup, especially now as they transition under a new coaching staff led by Kevin Stefanski and offensive coordinator Tommy Rees. Drafted in 2021 as the fourth overall pick, Pitts' impact has been consistently felt on the field. His career stats boast 284 receptions from 451 targets, yielding 3,579 yards and 15 touchdowns over 78 games, of which 72 have been starts. His rookie season accolades include an All-Rookie team selection and a noteworthy Pro Bowl nod—the only time he crossed the 1,000-yard milestone in a season. As the Falcons continue to shape their future roster, Pitts stands as a cornerstone player, poised to further his contributions alongside fellow receiver Drake London, amidst a dynamic offensive strategy.