Atlanta Falcons pull strategic contract lever ahead of free agency frenzy

Atlanta Falcons have made the first decisive move of the NFL offseason, opting to place the franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts. The decision ensures Pitts will not test the open market and keeps him under team control for the 2026 season on a fully guaranteed one-year deal projected to be worth roughly $16 million.

By acting early, Atlanta eliminated uncertainty around one of its most dynamic offensive weapons. The franchise tag provides exclusive negotiating rights through July, giving the organization a window to negotiate a long-term extension. If no deal is reached by then, the one-year tender will lock in for the upcoming campaign.

A calculated move with long-term intent

Multiple reports indicate the Falcons’ intention is not merely short-term retention but long-term stability. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the franchise tag represents the first step toward keeping Pitts in Atlanta beyond 2026.

The financial mechanics of the tag are clear. As Over The Cap explained, “Franchise tag figures are based upon the top five salaries at each respective position, while transition tag figures are based on the top ten.”

Based on those projections, Pitts is expected to earn approximately $16.3 million next season.

The move also preserves optionality. In a year where Atlanta lacks premium draft capital, tagging Pitts gives the front office leverage. Should Atlanta Falcons explore trade possibilities, they would control the process rather than risk losing the 25-year-old without compensation.

Betting on a resurgence

Pitts rewarded the organization’s faith with a breakout 2025 campaign. He recorded 88 receptions for a team-high 988 receiving yards and five touchdowns, earning All-Pro recognition for the first time in his career. Notably, 58% of his catches resulted in first downs, underscoring his value as a chain-mover.

After early-career flashes were disrupted by injury and inconsistent quarterback play, Pitts’ 2025 resurgence reaffirmed why he was selected fourth overall. His career totals now stand at 284 receptions for 3,579 yards and 15 touchdowns across 78 games.

Atlanta Falcons’ decision reflects confidence that last season was not an outlier but a trajectory shift. By pulling the franchise tag lever ahead of free agency, Atlanta secured flexibility, protected a premier asset, and positioned itself to dictate the next chapter of Pitts’ career.