Kyle Pitts entered the league with franchise-altering expectations after being selected No. 4 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, but three seasons later, the Atlanta Falcons appear ready to explore new options.
The Pro Bowl tight end has become a lightning rod for criticism following years of underwhelming production.
His absence from recent OTAs raised eyebrows, particularly given concerns about his explosiveness and on-field effort.
Since his breakout rookie campaign, Pitts hasn’t surpassed 700 receiving yards in a season.
ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler recently revealed the team’s shifting stance on the former top-five selection.
“Atlanta seems to be open to the possibility of trading Kyle Pitts at this point. They won’t force the issue, but as one source told me, if there’s a good enough offer, this will probably get done. So, Kyle Pitts is not requesting a trade. I’m told he’s open to staying in Atlanta. It’s nothing of that matter. It’s just, he’s at least thought about the options,” Fowler said, via NFL on ESPN.
.@JFowlerESPN says the Atlanta Falcons are “open” to the possibility of trading TE Kyle Pitts
Where is a good landing spot for Pitts? 👀 pic.twitter.com/c4p6QAQufR
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) June 2, 2025
The path since Pitts’ promising debut has been riddled with obstacles. A significant knee injury during his second season sidelined him for months, and his return hasn’t produced the dominant performances many anticipated.
The transition away from Matt Ryan at quarterback has seemingly affected his production levels.
Questions about separation ability, reliable hands and consistent effort have followed him since coming out of the University of Florida.
His performance patterns show flashes of brilliance mixed with frustrating inconsistency.
He is entering the final year of his rookie contract, creating additional pressure to perform.
The financial motivation should provide incentive, assuming he can maintain his health. His recent foot injury kept him away from early OTA sessions, and the Falcons have handled the situation cautiously.
The circumstances surrounding his absence might suggest there are underlying factors beyond the reported injury.
