The Atlanta Falcons are reportedly set to apply the franchise tag to their tight end Kyle Pitts ahead of the upcoming deadline. The projected franchise tag salary for tight ends in 2026 is estimated to be around $16 million, based on the average of the top five salaries at the position in the league.
NFL teams have until March 3 to designate a player with the franchise tag. Once tagged, players have until July 15 to negotiate a long-term contract. If a deal isn’t reached by then, the player must play under the franchise tag, with the only exception being a holdout.
Pitts, aged 25, had a solid performance in 2025, playing on a fifth-year team option worth $10.9 million, part of the four-year, $32.9 million rookie contract he signed as a first-round draft pick in 2026. Over his career, he has earned $43.9 million.
While his rookie season saw him achieve 68 catches for an impressive 1,026 yards, Pitts has struggled to replicate that level of success in the following years. Entering the last year of his rookie deal without an extension, his 2025 season marked a resurgence with 88 receptions for 928 yards and five touchdowns, positioning him as one of the leading tight ends in the league behind Arizona’s Trey McBride. This achievement is particularly commendable given the inconsistent quarterback play from Michael Penix Jr. and Kirk Cousins throughout the season.
The Falcons’ decision to prioritize the franchise tag for Pitts reflects their commitment to retaining his talents. The next few months will be crucial for both Pitts and the team as they navigate the potential for a long-term contract. Doing so could not only solidify Pitts’ future with the Falcons but also enhance their offensive strategy moving forward.