The NFL offseason has already delivered a few surprises. One of the biggest involves the Atlanta Falcons and tight end Kyle Pitts. After weeks of trade speculation leading up to the NFL Draft, Atlanta appears committed to keeping Pitts on the roster. More importantly, the team’s plans suggest a trade is no longer under consideration.
Reports indicate the Falcons intend to use Pitts differently this season. The Falcons expect him to run a more diverse route tree and take on an expanded role within the offense. After signing Drake London to a long-term extension, Atlanta now appears focused on unlocking Pitts’ full potential.
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Head coach Kevin Stefanski recently praised Pitts and highlighted his willingness to embrace new challenges.
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“The physical skill set is obvious when Kyle is on the field and with how big he is and how he moves, but I’ve been impressed with [how he is taking to] what we’re asking him to do and then a couple new things for him,” Stefanski said.
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23. Atlanta Falcons — $14,013,085
Jan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. (8) runs after a catch against the New Orleans Saints in the fourth quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
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“As your players continue on in their career, you want to find out more what else is in there. And what else can we do and what can we help you with?”
Stefanski has worked with several talented tight ends throughout his coaching career. During his time in Cleveland, he coached David Njoku and Harold Fannin Jr.. This experiences gives him a clear vision for how he wants Pitts to contribute in the offense.
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Pitts has embraced both Stefanski’s message and the confidence the Falcons have shown in him.
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“I took the positive in it and taking a chance and [it’s] basically kind of like my fifth-year option. But it’s a sixth-year option,” Pitts said last week.
Oct 26, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. (8) is knocked out of bounds by Miami Dolphins linebacker Jaelan Phillips (15) and cornerback Jack Jones (23) during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
“And it’s a blessing to be able to get that year and them not say, ‘Well, you can go test the market,’ or whatever. They just trust you that we see something in you and it’s pretty cool to see. It’s a new year and … I’m not worried about it.”
Pitts’ rise extends beyond his play on the field, as the organization continues to show its trust in him. Last season, he posted some of his strongest production since entering the league in 2021. He recorded career highs of 88 receptions and five touchdowns.
Now, with a head coach determined to elevate his game and a franchise firmly behind him, Pitts has an opportunity to become the elite weapon Atlanta envisioned when it selected him in the first round. The question now is simple: will Year 6 be the best season of his career?