
Tight end Kyle Pitts is one of the biggest names on the free agent market, and the former top-five pick should receive plenty of interest if the Atlanta Falcons do not re-sign him. Originally selected with the fourth-overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Florida product began his career with a 1,000-yard season before injuries limited him over the next three campaigns. However, he finally stayed healthy in 2025 and delivered a fantastic season, recording 88 receptions for 928 yards and five touchdowns in 17 games.
Pitts may not ever live up to his pre-draft billing, but he’s the best pass-catching tight end on the open market. Players with his skill set are few and far between, and the following three teams could spend up to secure his services.
First-overall pick Cam Ward did not have the best statistical rookie season, but no young quarterback could have survived in that environment. While Tennessee rightfully rebuilt its coaching staff to support the Miami product, Ward will not thrive unless the team dramatically improves its supporting cast.
Signing Kyle Pitts as a free agent might be the first step in fixing this offense. The tight end position can serve as a reliable safety blanket for young quarterbacks, and Pitts is one of the league’s better receiving threats at the position. While the Titans should look to add more than just one weapon, Pitts would be a great first addition to the roster.
This one depends on how much the Los Angeles Chargers believe in Oronde Gadsden. The fifth-round pick had an impressive debut, recording 49 receptions for 664 yards, three touchdowns, and a respectable 64.1 PFF grade. If Jim Harbaugh and company believe he can make the Year 2 leap, the team will probably not sign Kyle Pitts as a free agent.
However, if the Chargers want more of a sure-fire thing, they have the money to go after Kyle Pitts. The former top-five pick proved his game can translate to the NFL, and he could thrive in this offense. Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel got a career season out of Jonnu Smith, and Pitts could fill the Vernon Davis role for head coach Jim Harbaugh.
Nobody loves the tight end position more than the New England Patriots and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. While the Rob Gronkowski Era is long gone, the team has still built its offense around a reliable pass-catching weapon at tight end. Hunter Henry has been one of the most reliable players on the post-Brady Patriots, but he’s not getting any younger.
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