It’s not a surprise, but NFL insider Ian Rapoport is reporting that the Falcons will indeed use the franchise tag on Kyle Pitts. Rapoport indicates the Falcons will use the tag to buy themselves time for a long-term pact with Pitts, with the deal needing to be done by July. Pitts, who won’t turn 26 until October, has already played five seasons in Atlanta and has 284 career receptions for 3,579 yards and 15 touchdowns as a Falcon. Those numbers are good for 4th all-time among Falcons tight ends for receptions and yardage and 5th in touchdowns, with Jim Mitchell, Tony Goznalez, Alge Crumpler, and Austin Hooper (for touchdowns) ahead of him. In a tight end friendly offense, we hope so too.

Source: New York Times February 23, 2026 21:32 UTC