Kyle Pitts Reportedly Signs Falcons Franchise Tag, What's Timeline to Land New Contract?

Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts showed a sign of good faith amid negotiations for a potential new contract.

Per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Pitts signed the franchise tag that will pay him $15 million for the 2026 season and will report for the start of offseason workouts. The Falcons and Pitts can still negotiate a long-term deal over the next few months before the July 15 deadline, or he will become a free agent next offseason.

Pitts is the highest-drafted tight end in NFL history after Atlanta selected him fourth overall in 2021. After a promising rookie year in which he recorded 1,026 yards and earned a Pro Bowl selection, he struggled to produce over the next few years before finding his groove again in 2025.

The 25-year-old recorded career highs of 88 catches and five touchdowns while finishing with 928 yards. He hadn't produced more than 700 yards in any of the three previous seasons despite not missing a game since 2022.

If the 2025 campaign is any indication, Pitts could be on the ascent as he continues his development in Atlanta. New head coach Kevin Stefanski will certainly be looking forward to utilizing him in the passing attack, though it's not yet clear who will be under center.

The Falcons signed former Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa this offseason. He's expected to compete for the starting job with third-year signal-caller Michael Penix Jr., who is recovering from a partially torn ACL.

Whoever earns the starting quarterback position will certainly benefit from having Pitts on the field in 2026, and it remains to be seen if the Falcons are able to lock him up with a new deal beyond the upcoming season.