Falcons franchise tag Kyle Pitts: 2026 Fantasy Football outlook gets a boost with Kevin Stefanski at the helm
CBS Sports
by
Jamey Eisenberg
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Atlanta Falcons' decision to place the franchise tag on Kyle Pitts is a significant boost for his fantasy football outlook, especially with Kevin Stefanski at the helm. Known for effectively utilizing tight ends during his time in Cleveland, Stefanski could elevate Pitts' role in the offense. This move ensures Pitts remains in Atlanta, where he has shown flashes of brilliance but also faced challenges due to injuries and inconsistent quarterback play.
Pitts had a standout 2021 as a rookie, recording 68 catches for 1,026 yards and one touchdown, earning him the second-highest receiving yards by a rookie tight end in history. However, subsequent seasons saw his performance dip, with struggles in 2022 and 2023, and a 2024 campaign marked by inconsistent production. Despite these setbacks, Pitts rebounded in 2025, averaging 12.4 PPR points per game and showcasing strong performances late in the season.
The Falcons' offensive direction under Stefanski is crucial for Pitts' success. Stefanski's history with tight ends suggests he could integrate Pitts into a prominent role, potentially making him a top target in the team's passing game. Additionally, the quarterback situation in 2026 will influence Pitts' fantasy value. With Michael Penix Jr. recovering from an ACL injury and Kirk Cousins expected to depart, Pitts may see increased opportunities under a new signal-caller.
For fantasy football enthusiasts, Pitts' potential under Stefanski makes him a valuable draft pick despite his inconsistent past. His ability to perform at a high level when healthy, combined with the coach's history of leveraging tight ends, positions him as a key asset in 2026. Fantasy managers should monitor developments during training camp and stay tuned
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/26/2026