Home / Sports / Pitts Franchise Tagged: Falcons Secure Star TE
Pitts Franchise Tagged: Falcons Secure Star TE
24 Feb
Summary
- Kyle Pitts will play on a franchise tag for the 2026 season.
- The tag is valued at approximately $16.5 million for the season.
- Atlanta has until July 15 to negotiate a long-term deal.
The Atlanta Falcons intend to place the franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts, securing his services for the upcoming 2026 season. This move comes as Pitts was set to become a free agent.
The franchise tag is projected to be worth around $16.5 million, an amount equivalent to the average of the top five salaries for tight ends in the NFL. The team and Pitts' representatives aim to reach a long-term contract agreement by July 15, which would negate the need for him to play under the one-year tag.
Pitts, a former fourth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, had a standout season in 2025 with 88 receptions for 928 yards and a career-high five touchdowns. He is expected to remain a primary receiving option for the new coaching staff, led by Kevin Stefanski and offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, alongside receiver Drake London.
While not officially announced by the Falcons, this is reportedly the first franchise tag of the offseason. Teams have until March 3 to make their franchise tag decisions.
