Topic / Subject
Per Reuters, the Falcons officially placed the franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts for 2026.

TL;DR / Summary
The Falcons tagged Kyle Pitts, keeping him off the market on a one-year deal worth about $16.5M. Next up: extension talks or play it out.

Key Details

• Atlanta has officially used the franchise tag on Kyle Pitts.
• Reuters pegs the 2026 tag value at roughly $16.5M for the season.
• The Falcons can still negotiate a long-term deal with Pitts ahead of the multi-year contract deadline.
• The tag keeps Pitts off the open market and gives Atlanta leverage heading into the summer.

Breakdown
This is the cleanest “keep the asset” move possible. Atlanta isn’t letting Pitts test free agency, and they’re buying time to decide if this is a one-year bet or the start of a longer partnership.

The tag also sets the tone for the Falcons’ offseason: if you’re tagging a tight end at a premium number, you’re either confident in the player, confident in the plan, or both.

Now it’s a negotiation game. Pitts is secured for now, but the real question is whether this turns into a long-term contract or just a pricey bridge year.

What to Watch Next

• Whether Pitts reports quickly under the tag or pushes for a longer deal.
• Any extension talks leaking out ahead of the summer deadline.
• How Atlanta’s offensive plans and QB situation shape Pitts’ long-term value.

Sources

• Reuters — Falcons officially place franchise tag on TE Kyle Pitts

Comment
Should the Falcons lock Pitts up long-term, or is the tag the right move until the offense proves it can feature him?