The Falcons’ decision to draft Kyle Pitts fourth overall in 2021 was supposed to usher in a new era of offensive dominance. Instead, it’s been four seasons of inconsistency and unmet expectations from the highest-drafted tight end in NFL history.
Pitts, 24, is coming off another underwhelming campaign — and entering the final year of his rookie deal after Atlanta picked up his fifth-year option. While his physical traits still make him an intriguing talent, he’s tallied just 2,651 yards and 10 touchdowns in 52 career games. Despite flashes of brilliance, questions continue to mount about his effort, consistency, and whether he fits into Atlanta’s long-term plans.
Offensive coordinator Zac Robinson recently said the team wants Pitts to “take that next step of, you know, next level of detail, next level of consistency,” a statement that—while respectful—reflected the tone of uncertainty around the former Pro Bowl tight end.
So it’s no surprise that NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported “multiple teams have reached out to the Falcons about the availability” of Pitts. Schultz added that “nothing is imminent, and Atlanta would prefer to keep him,” but that it would take “at least a Day 2 pick to even spark serious talks.”
Among the teams floated as a potential landing spot? The Jacksonville Jaguars, according to CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin.
“This one might be high on Pitts' wish list, given he spent three years playing for the Gators, just over an hour away from where the Jaguars take the field," Benjamin wrote. "Yes, Jacksonville spent big to add Travis Hunter as a new weapon for Trevor Lawrence in the draft, but new general manager James Gladstone might still have an interest in replacing Evan Engram, who left in free agency. Pitts' positional versatility could give the Jaguars a new-look 'big three' along with Brian Thomas Jr., increasing Lawrence's odds of a turnaround.”
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Imagining how Pitts could thrive under new head coach Liam Coen, while pairing him with Lawrence, Hunter and Thomas, would make the Jaguars a fun team to watch. But whether Atlanta is truly ready to move on — or simply listening for the right price — remains to be seen.
MORE ATLANTA FALCONS:
Falcons-Cowboys blockbuster trade idea pairs Dak Prescott with $32M unproven pass catcher
Falcons predicted to cut ties with $180 million veteran, clearing path to hated rival