Kyle Pitts sealed a three‑year, $54 million deal with the Atlanta Falcons on Tuesday, adding $36 million fully guaranteed. The contract jumps his average annual value to $18 million, placing him third among tight ends in pay after George Kittle and Trey McBride. The deal eliminates the franchise tag that would have paid him $15 million in 2026.

Pitts, 25, finished 2025 with 88 receptions, 928 yards, and five touchdowns, ranking second among tight ends for receptions and yards. His 2021 rookie campaign saw 1,026 yards, the first 1,000‑yard season for a tight end since 1961. The Falcons now lock him through 2028, freeing resources for other core players.

The extension follows a four‑year, $141 million renewal for wide receiver Drake London and precedes a push to re‑upp the All‑Pro running back Bijan Robinson. It signals the new Falcons front office—president Matt Ryan, coach Kevin Stefanski, GM Ian Cunningham—intends to build around a core of skill players and avoid mid‑career instability.

With Pitts now secured, Atlanta can focus on balancing its offensive package. The contract cements the tight end’s role as a primary weapon after a career that saw early promise, injury setbacks, and a breakout 2025 season. The Falcons’ ownership is betting that stability at key positions will translate into playoff contention.