Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Former Fourth Overall Pick Labeled As Most Important Player For The Falcons

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Hery Acosta | Last updated Jun 18, 2025 11:08 PM ET

Pitts was selected fourth overall in 2021 and had a stellar rookie year which saw him be a pro bowler and an All-rookie member. His rookie season was his best when it came to receptions, yards and yards per catch.

Since his rookie season his productivity has gone down with the different quarterbacks that have all stepped up for the Falcons. He had quarterbacks like Matt Ryan, Desmond Ridder, Marcus Mariota, Taylor Heinecke and Kirk Cousins. Pitts has not been able to adjust to the unstable quarterback position until now where Atlanta believes they have their star with Michael Penix Jr.

Pitts is entering a contract year, where if he does not play up to speed, the Falcons will not think twice about letting him walk in 2026. He also is the current experienced tight end on the roster and needs to be the one to step up more than anyone.

PFF had ranked Pitts as one of the top 10 players with the most to prove and now have him as the most important player for the Falcons success this season. The offense will be close to flawless, if Pitts plays the way he did in his rookie year, and he can find the endzone at least 6-8 times this season.

The Falcons have Bijan Robinson and Drake London who are the stars of the offense, but they can only do so much. Pitts must step up and show that he is better than 10 touchdowns in four seasons.

The tight end position overall is going to be critical for the offense to succeed in the way they want. Pitts is going to have to be that leader and put up his best season so the Falcons can spread the ball around as much as they can.

In 2025 there will a few issues to deal with for the Falcons, and one is going to be to make sure Pitts stays healthy and he produces. Pitts also seems to be sticking around with the Falcons for 2025, and if he does not produce early could be back in trade rumors.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: