The Atlanta Falcons plan to place the franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts Sr., securing one of the league's top tight ends for at least the 2026 season, sources told ESPN. The franchise tag would guarantee Pitts approximately $16,319,000, the 2026 salary for tight ends, according to OverTheCap.com.

Pitts rebounded strongly in 2025, finishing second among tight ends with 88 receptions for 928 yards and five touchdowns. His performance included a historic game against Tampa Bay with 11 catches for 166 yards and three touchdowns - the first tight end to achieve such numbers since Shannon Sharpe in 1996. The 25-year-old struggled with injuries and inconsistency from 2022-2024 after a record-breaking rookie season in 2021.

Pitts and the Falcons have until July 15 to negotiate a long-term contract, or he'll play 2026 under the franchise tender. The move comes as new leadership takes shape in Atlanta, with former quarterback Matt Ryan now serving as president of football and Kevin Stefanski as head coach. Stefanski's background as a former tight ends coach suggests Pitts could play a prominent role in the team's offensive schemes