The Atlanta Falcons are looking to offload some contracts this offseason — or potentially at any point during the season. One name that’s been consistently mentioned in trade rumors is Kirk Cousins, whose contract continues to weigh heavily on Atlanta’s cap space. However, in a surprising development, Kyle Pitts has also been drawing interest in trade conversations.
Pitts may be open to a move if the right opportunity presents itself. He’s struggled to find his footing in Atlanta’s offense, and a fresh start in a scheme that better suits his skill set could make him more receptive to a trade.
“I don't think it's a situation where [the Falcons] are aggressively shopping [Pitts],” ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler said. “But it appears, talking to some other teams, they think Atlanta is at least open to the possibility and Pitts might be as well. I'm told he loves Atlanta, this is not a situation where he's requesting a trade, but if he has a chance to go to maybe a better offense where he's more featured.”
The Pittsburgh Steelers have already inquired about Pitts, following a season-ending injury to one of their tight ends during mandatory minicamp.
If Pitts is traded — or even if a deal is thought of — Bleacher Report’s Brent Soboleski believes the Falcons will aim to bring in a veteran replacement.
“Falcons Get: TE Dawson Knox. Saints Get: QB Kirk Cousins. Bills Get: S Tyrann Mathieu,” Soboleski wrote.
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“Finally, the Falcons replace Kyle Pitts with Dawson Knox. The Bills previously spent a first-round pick on fellow tight end Dalton Kincaid. Knox turns 29 later this year and his production has dipped the last two seasons. As long as he remains healthy, though, he can still be a dependable contributor for Atlanta. Even if Pitts isn't dealt as previously suggested, Knox can operate in 12 personnel this year and likely take the starting spot a year from now,” Soboleski added.
Knox has been a reliable target for Josh Allen in Buffalo, and in this proposed deal, Atlanta would not only get a proven tight end but also offload Cousins’ contract — one of their biggest offseason goals.