Report: Falcons to place franchise tag on Pitts

The Atlanta Falcons are planning to place the franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Pitts will play the 2026 season on a one-year contract worth $16.3 million if he signs the tender, according to Over the Cap. The franchise tag deadline is March 3, nearly a week before the start of free agency.

However, the two sides will aim to work out a long-term deal prior to the July 15 deadline.

Pitts was named a second-team All-Pro in 2025 after posting a career-high five touchdowns on 88 receptions while racking up 928 receiving yards.

The Florida product joined the Falcons with high expectations after being selected fourth overall in 2021 NFL Draft. Pitts delivered a record-breaking rookie campaign, recording 68 catches for 1,026 yards. He became the first rookie tight end to be named to the Pro Bowl since Jeremy Shockey in 2002.

Pitts struggled to replicate the outstanding production from his first season in the following years. He tore his MCL in 2022, limiting him to 10 games, and failed to surpass 60 receptions and 700 yards during the 2023 and 2024 campaigns.