Falcons to place franchise tag on star tight end Kyle Pitts
CBS Sports
by
Jordan Dajani
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Atlanta Falcons have decided to place the franchise tag on star tight end Kyle Pitts, ensuring he won’t hit free agency this offseason. This move comes as the team works toward negotiating a long-term contract with Pitts, who is set to become one of the top tight ends available in an upcoming wave of free agency. The deadline for the Falcons to sign Pitts to a new deal is July 15, and if he were to play on the franchise tag in 2026, he would earn a fully-guaranteed $16,007,000. With $26,462,519 in cap space, Atlanta is positioned to make this happen while maintaining flexibility for other roster needs.
Pitts’ status as one of the NFL’s elite tight ends has made him a key player to watch. In 2023, he had a career year with 88 catches for 928 yards and five touchdowns, including an unforgettable Week 15 performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers where he caught 11 of 12 passes for 166 yards and three touchdowns. His production has earned him recognition as one of the top tight ends in the league, alongside stars like Travis Kelce, David Njoku, and George Pickens, who have also been linked to franchise tags or free agency.
The Falcons’ decision to tag Pitts is significant for several reasons. It not only retains a cornerstone of their offense but also gives them time to negotiate a long-term deal that reflects his value. While the franchise tag provides immediate stability, it’s seen as a stepping stone toward a more permanent contract. Atlanta’s cap space, currently ranked
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/23/2026