Kyle Pitts, once hailed as a generational tight-end prospect, is now the subject of Kyle Pitts trade rumors after ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that a deal could come together if Atlanta gets the right offer. NFL insider Jordan Schultz added that the Falcons are seeking at least a Day 2 pick in return for the 24-year-old. Selected fourth overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, Pitts was expected to revolutionize the position. However, after a promising rookie season, his production has cooled, leading to speculation that a fresh start might benefit both sides.
Sources: Multiple teams have reached out to the #Falcons about the availability of TE Kyle Pitts.
Nothing is imminent, and Atlanta would prefer to keep him — but I’m told it would take at least a Day 2 pick to even spark serious talks. pic.twitter.com/smNLgOcBow
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) May 30, 2025
Drafted with High Expectations
When the Falcons selected Kyle Pitts fourth overall in 2021, he became the highest-drafted tight end in NFL history. His unique blend of size, speed, and receiving skills had scouts comparing him to elite wide receivers. Pitts flashed that potential immediately, putting up 68 catches for 1,026 yards and earning a Pro Bowl nod as a rookie.
However, the seasons since have been less impressive, raising questions about whether he has truly lived up to his lofty draft status.
Declining Production Leading To The Kyle Pitts Trade Rumors: A Statistical Overview
After his stellar debut season, Pitts’ production dipped:
2022: 28 receptions, 356 yards, 2 touchdowns (in 10 games)
2023: 53 receptions, 667 yards, 3 touchdowns (in 17 games)
2024: 47 receptions, 602 yards, 4 touchdowns (in 17 games)
Through four seasons, Pitts has totaled 196 receptions, 2,651 receiving yards, and 10 touchdowns. He had solid numbers, but not the game-changing impact many envisioned when he entered the league.
Kyle Pitts Trade Rumors: Potential Trade Destinations
Several teams could view Pitts as a high-upside addition:
New England Patriots: The Patriots could use Pitts alongside Hunter Henry in a dual-tight-end system, giving their young quarterback, Drake Maye, an athletic target who can stretch the field.
New York Giants: The Giants have reportedly circled Pitts’ name. Adding Pitts would give the Giants another weapon and a reliable red-zone threat to complement their young offense.
Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers showed interest in Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith recently. Considering Arthur Smith, who coached Pitts in Atlanta, is now in Pittsburgh, a reunion could make sense if the Steelers want to upgrade at tight end.
Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles are always aggressive when it comes to acquiring talent. With Dallas Goedert’s future still somewhat cloudy due to injuries and contract considerations, Pitts could give the Eagles another dynamic weapon at tight end.
Miami Dolphins: The Miami Dolphins could also be a team to watch. If Miami moves on from Jonnu Smith as recent rumors suggest, they may look to replace him and could have interest in acquiring Kyle Pitts.
Should the Falcons Trade Pitts?
Trading Kyle Pitts isn’t a simple decision. The Falcons’ tight end depth behind Pitts is thin, and moving him would leave a noticeable hole unless they already have a replacement plan in mind.
While Pitts hasn’t fully met expectations, he’s still young and talented. Unless Atlanta believes they can find or develop a comparable replacement quickly, it may not make much sense to move him right now. Pitts still can be a dynamic piece of their offense if used properly, especially under a new system and with a new quarterback in town.
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