Kyle Pitts, the supremely skilled tight end for the Atlanta Falcons, was recently placed on IR with an undisclosed injury. This situation has led to questions about his performance entering the 2023 season. The Atlanta Falcons selected Pitts with the fourth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Once he joined, he easily earned his reputation as the best player in the league.
In his rookie season, Pitts made history by becoming the first rookie tight end to earn a Pro Bowl selection since Jeremy Shockey in 2002. That season, he had a phenomenal 68 catches for 1,026 yards and one touchdown. Yet injuries and inconsistency have been the story of Pitts’ career since his rookie campaign. Last year, he averaged a dismal 11.3 yards per reception while logging just 47 receptions for 602 yards and four TD catches, well below his rookie production.
Still just 24 years old, Pitts is still a big part of the Falcons future. The franchise exercised his fifth-year rookie contract option last offseason, demonstrating their long-term commitment to him even through the recent turbulence. Head coach Raheem Morris emphasized the team’s cautious approach regarding Pitts’ recovery, stating, “Extremely cautious with Kyle right now and what he’s got going on.”
And that’s why Pitts completely skipped the media viewing portion of practice last week. His absence created additional speculation as to whether he would be ready in time for the next season. On Friday, Morris calmed fans’ panic by explaining that Pitts has been active with the team.
“He’s been here, he’s done such a great job. … He’s been in every single thing that we’ve done other than the field, and he’s been absolutely outstanding to be around.” – Raheem Morris
Given the Falcons’ cautious approach with Pitts, it’s clear how crucial his role is within the Falcons’ offensive game plan. His performance this season will be mightily important. His contract situation won’t be revisited until 2025.
Pitts is taking impressive steps forward in his recuperation. The joint is extremely positive that he can return to form and repeat the winning formula that emerged in his rookie year. The upcoming season will be a test of Pitts’ resolve, as well as his future with the franchise.
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