The Falcons were eliminated from playoff contention on Saturday after falling to Lamar Jackson-less Ravens, but honestly, it should’ve happened early if it weren’t for such a poor NFC South. The worst division in football kept Atlanta’s postseason hopes alive. Now, it’s about self scouting and preparing for the next season, which includes evaluating all personnel moves. According to reports, the Falcons have received trade calls on Kyle Pitts.
One name to watch this offseason: Kyle Pitts. The #Falcons say they have no plans to trade him but they’ve received multiple calls.
— uSTADIUM (@uSTADIUM) December 27, 2022
Pitts suffered an MCL injury that the Falcons initially hoped he could return from but ended up needing surgery, ending his season several weeks ago. Despite the down 2022 campaign, Pitts is one of the most talented players in football. His rookie campaign ended with Pro Bowl honors, including a slew of franchise records. But his second season has been forgetful.
In 10 games, Pitts had just 28 catches for 356 yards with two touchdowns but to no fault of his own. He remains the most physically gifted tight end in football, and the Falcons offense did nothing to accentuate his talents. And it wasn’t Arthur Smith’s fault, either. He had to take the ball out of Marcus Mariota‘s hands to put the team in a position to win games. The world saw what Pitts could do with a competent thrower in Matt Ryan — threatening Mike Ditka‘s all-time receiving record for a rookie tight end.
So it’s no surprise that Kyle Pitts is highly coveted. The highest-drafted tight end of all time is coming off a terrible season, and the GM vultures are circling Atlanta for scraps. Obviously, the report includes the Falcons having no plans to trade him, but there’s no chance Terry Fontenot hasn’t thought about a potential return if he’s received trade calls. Pitts is a special player, but if the deal nets some ridiculous return, Fontenot would have to consider it. Still, no trade will likely pry Kyle Pitts away from Arthur Smith and the Falcons.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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