The Atlanta Falcons are reportedly moving to secure their star tight end, Kyle Pitts Sr., as the NFL franchise tag window officially opens. According to reports surfacing on Monday, February 23, 2026, the organization plans to apply the franchise tag to the 25-year-old playmaker, effectively blocking him from entering the open market as one of the most coveted free agents of the 2026 offseason.
Falcons Secure Pitts Amid Free Agency Rumors
The decision to tag Pitts comes after weeks of speculation regarding his future in Atlanta. As a former fourth-overall pick out of Florida, Pitts has remained a focal point of the Falcons’ offensive strategy. By applying the tag, Atlanta ensures they retain the dynamic tight end for at least the 2026 season while providing a broader window to negotiate a long-term contract extension.
Industry analysts, including NFL Network’s Marc Ross, have called the move “the most sensical” option for the franchise. Despite what some critics have described as an “uneven” career production-wise, Pitts remains a rare athletic talent. He recently earned a spot on Pro Football Focus’ top 101 players of 2025 list following a productive campaign.
A Career-Best Season in 2025
The move to retain Pitts follows a resurgent 2025 regular season where he silenced many doubters. Pitts finished the year with 88 receptions for 928 yards and 5 touchdowns, ranking 10th among all NFL players in total receptions. His career statistics now stand at 284 receptions for 3,579 yards and 15 touchdowns over five seasons.
The franchise tag will likely disappoint several tight-end-needy teams, most notably the New England Patriots, who had been heavily linked to Pitts in recent free-agency previews. With Pitts off the board, the market for veteran tight ends now shifts toward other available stars like Travis Kelce.
Personal Loss and Locker Room Impact
While the business side of the NFL dominates headlines, Pitts has also been in the news for personal reasons. On Sunday, February 22, Pitts expressed his deep shock and grief over the passing of Rondale Moore. Pitts shared on social media that he had spoken with Moore just the night before the news broke, highlighting the somber mood within the professional football community this week.
What’s Next for Atlanta?
Retaining Pitts is just the first step in a complex offseason for the Falcons. The team is also managing injury updates for wide receiver Drake London, who missed recent action with a knee injury, and navigating potential trade interest in other roster members like Darnell Mooney. With the franchise tag applied, the Falcons and Pitts have until the mid-July deadline to agree on a multi-year deal, or Pitts will play the 2026 season under the one-year tender.