With Cade Otton gearing up for free agency and potentially drawing more interest from other teams than the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the tight end position is high on the Bucs' priority list. However, don't expect new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson to bring Kyle Pitts to Tampa, as Pitts is staying put with the Atlanta Falcons.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, the Falcons plan to franchise tag Pitts, locking him in with a $15 million one-year deal. This move ensures that the former Florida Gators standout remains off the free-agent market, keeping one of the league's most dynamic tight ends in Atlanta. Pitts, who snagged a career-high 80+ receptions in 2025, is a key asset the Falcons aren't willing to lose.
For the Buccaneers, the decision to keep Pitts in Atlanta could indirectly increase their chances of retaining Otton, a promising free-agent tight end. While Otton has shown potential, his time in Tampa Bay has been marred by inconsistency, with a standout performance of 90+ receiving yards against the Panthers in Week 17 coming too late to make a significant impact.
Part of Otton's struggles in 2025 can be attributed to the former offensive coordinator, Josh Grizzard, who was replaced by Robinson after the season. Otton's future in Tampa may depend on Robinson's system, but the organization might not see him as a key piece compared to teams that heavily utilize pass-catching tight ends.
Pitts remaining in the NFC South poses a challenge for Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers faced a tough loss to a Kirk Cousins-led Falcons team on Thursday Night Football late in the season, and the Falcons were close behind them in the standings by Week 17.
With Kevin Stefanski now at the helm in Atlanta and Michael Penix Jr. poised to thrive under a supportive coaching staff, Pitts could have a breakout season after showcasing his potential in 2025, especially following Drake London's injury. Pitts staying with the Falcons is a double whammy for the Buccaneers, who now must address their tight end needs, possibly targeting this position on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft.