Kyle Pitts

Atlanta's 2026 starter is unsettled, with Michael Penix Jr. (coming off a knee issue) and newcomer Tua Tagovailoa competing for the job. Pitts must build rapport with a new passer, and a downgrade or in-season QB churn caps his ceiling despite elite usage.

Pitts is playing 2026 on a one-year, fully guaranteed $15.05M franchise tag with no long-term deal yet; sides have until mid-July to negotiate an extension. CBS Sports has floated lingering trade possibilities, adding situational uncertainty even though his on-field role is secure.

New HC Kevin Stefanski runs historically TE-friendly offenses, and Pitts is arguably the most talented tight end he's ever coached. The scheme upgrade is a real catalyst for a true TE1 ceiling on top of an already-elite 30% target share.

Pitts is coming off a second-team All-Pro 88/928/5 line (TE2 PPR) at just age 25, with game logs confirming usage is holding — 30% target share and 92% snaps both stable across the final four games. Premium young production at a scarce position.