The Atlanta Falcons have officially placed the franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move, made on Tuesday, ensures that the dynamic playmaker will remain under team control for the 2026 NFL season as the two sides continue to navigate long-term contract discussions.
Pitts, who was selected by Atlanta with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has been a focal point of the Falcons' passing attack since entering the league. By utilizing the franchise tag, the Falcons front office prevents the star tight end from reaching unrestricted free agency when the new league year begins. The designation carries a one-year salary determined by the league's formula for the top players at the position.
This transaction allows Atlanta more time to secure Pitts to a multi-year deal. Under NFL rules, the team and Kyle Pitts have until the league's mid-summer deadline to agree on a long-term extension. If no agreement is reached by that date, Pitts will play the upcoming season under the fixed franchise tag tender. This move signals Atlanta's commitment to keeping one of their premier offensive weapons in the fold for the foreseeable future.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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