When the Falcons took Kyle Pitts with the fourth overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft, they made him the highest-picked tight end ever. Today, Pitts is nowhere near where the Falcons hoped he’d be in Year Four.
A Rollercoaster Start
This past Sunday, the Falcons faced the Saints, and Pitts, shockingly, produced zero catches on three targets. It marked the first time in his career he’s been held entirely without a catch. Through four games this season, Pitts has amassed only eight catches on 15 targets for a mere 105 yards, averaging just two catches for 26 yards per game. Talk about a nosedive!
The Decline
These per-game averages are the worst of Pitts’ career, a far cry from the promise he showed during his rookie year, which now feels like a distant dream. During his initial three seasons, it was easy to point fingers at then-coach Arthur Smith for Pitts’ lack of red zone production. But with Smith no longer at the helm, the responsibility for the dip in Pitts’ performance falls squarely on the player’s shoulders.
A Critical Investment
Despite the struggles, the Falcons have picked up Pitts’ fifth-year option, guaranteeing him a hefty $10.878 million for 2025—a serious chunk of change. Clearly, they’ve invested significantly in him and are banking on a much-needed return on that hefty investment.
Challenges and Future
The Falcons’ decision to invest in Pitts points to a belief that he can turn things around. The question on everyone’s mind is: Can Pitts recapture the magic of his rookie season and justify his selection as the highest-picked tight end in NFL history?
It’s clutch time, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Falcons’ fans, it’s high time to see if this high-flyer can soar to new heights. Stay tuned!
