Falcons pick up fifth-year option on tight end Kyle Pitts

The Atlanta Falcons have picked up the fifth-year option on tight end Kyle Pitts, ESPN’s Field Yates reported on Monday evening. Pitts, who’s still just 23 years old, is now under contract for at least the next two seasons (2024 and 2025).

Atlanta selected the ultra-talented tight end with the fourth overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft — the highest draft pick ever used on a tight end. Pitts led the team with 67 catches and 1,026 receiving yards as a rookie. The fifth-year option will cost Atlanta $10.8 million against the salary cap in 2025 because Pitts has made one Pro Bowl.

The former Florida star’s production dipped in 2022 before a knee injury prematurely ended his season. While he bounced back somewhat in 2023, the lack of quality play from the quarterback position hindered the entire passing game.

With Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix in place, the Falcons should be able to get the ball to Pitts in 2024 and beyond. Here’s how fans reacted to the news of Pitts’ extension on Twitter.