Let's dive into the Kyle Pitts situation with the Atlanta Falcons, where the numbers and recent performances paint a compelling picture. Pitts, who had a standout end to the 2025 season with four touchdowns and 469 yards in his final six games, finds himself in an intriguing free agency scenario. However, there's a debate brewing about whether his late-season surge truly reflects his value.
PFF projects Pitts' next contract around three years for $48 million, averaging $16 million annually. This figure would make him the fifth-highest-paid tight end in the league, a lofty position considering his overall performance over the past few seasons. While his late push was impressive, it's worth examining whether it justifies such a significant investment.
Since his Pro Bowl rookie season in 2021, Pitts hasn't consistently reached the heights expected of a generational talent. Despite being on Falcons teams that lacked offensive firepower, Pitts struggled to establish himself as a dominant force.
The brief stint of success last season coincided with Drake London's injury, which thrust Pitts into the spotlight as the primary target. Yet, once London returned, Pitts' production dipped.
Comparing Pitts to his peers like Evan Engram, Dallas Goedert, and Dalton Schultz, who all have contracts of $12 million AAV or less, raises questions about the proposed $16 million valuation. These players have demonstrated more consistent production at a more team-friendly cost.
For the Falcons, the decision is clear-cut. Investing heavily in Pitts might not be the wisest move, especially when considering alternatives. Drafting a tight end in the later rounds or exploring free agency for more consistent options could be a smarter strategy.
While Pitts' potential remains tantalizing, the Falcons face a crucial decision. Balancing the allure of his late-season form against his overall track record will be key in determining whether he's part of their future or if it's time to explore new avenues.