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Kyle Pitts’ Week 15 Eruption Puts Falcons’ Franchise-Tag Question Front and Center

The tight end’s surge has elevated contract stakes for a team preparing an ownership-led post-season review.

Overview

  • Kyle Pitts caught 11 passes for 166 yards and three touchdowns in a 29–28 win over the Buccaneers, a comeback that pushed Atlanta to 5–9 despite already being out of playoff contention.
  • According to ESPN research, he became the first tight end since 1996 to post at least 150 receiving yards and three touchdowns in a game.
  • Pitts is in the final year of his rookie deal, and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported he has moved into franchise-tag territory, with estimates around $15–16 million for 2026; his agent David Mulugheta has publicly opposed the tag.
  • Spotrac projects Pitts’ market value at about $11.8 million per year on a four-year, $47 million deal, as he ranks second among NFL tight ends with 797 receiving yards and has logged 24 catches for 338 yards over his last three games.
  • Owner Arthur Blank plans to evaluate the coaching staff and front office after the season, a review that could influence whether Atlanta tags Pitts, pursues an extension, or lets him reach free agency.