Kyle Pitts Trade Rumors Heat Up as NFL OTAs Begin

As organized team activities (OTAs) commence in the NFL, speculation surrounding trades continues to intensify. A recent wave of rumors indicates that various teams are interested in acquiring Kyle Pitts, a former Pro Bowler currently with the Atlanta Falcons. Although Kirk Cousins has been a prominent name in trade discussions throughout the offseason, it is Pitts who has garnered attention as he enters the final year of his rookie contract. According to Fox Sports' Jordan Schultz, several teams have inquired about Pitts' availability, though the Falcons reportedly prefer to retain the 24-year-old tight end.
Pitts is projected to become a free agent after this season and is set to earn $10.9 million on his fifth-year option. However, the Falcons currently have only $5.3 million in cap space, making financial flexibility a consideration if they wish to pursue additional moves before the start of the season. Below are a few potential suitors for Pitts, along with hypothetical trade packages that could attract Atlanta's interest.
One possible destination for Pitts could be the New England Patriots. In this scenario, the Patriots would send a 2026 third-round pick, a 2026 fourth-round pick, and tight end Austin Hooper to the Falcons in exchange for Pitts. While Pitts has not exceeded 1,000 receiving yards since his rookie season and has been sidelined by a foot issue during OTAs, his potential as a player remains enticing. For the Patriots, who are developing second-year quarterback Drake Maye, Pitts could become a key offensive weapon. The Patriots have the cap space to sign Pitts to a long-term contract, making this a feasible option.
Another candidate for Pitts is the Washington Commanders, who are also nurturing a promising young quarterback in Jayden Daniels. Featuring tight end Zach Ertz, who ranked second among Commanders pass-catchers last season, Washington re-signed him on a one-year deal. However, Levis would not be a long-term solution for the Commanders at tight end, making Pitts a strong enhancement to their offense. This move could provide Washington's offense a competitive edge against other playoff contenders as they navigate the season.
The Los Angeles Rams could be a compelling option as well. The Rams have a pressing need at tight end with Tyler Higbee entering the final year of his contract. A trade that sees the Rams acquiring Pitts, as well as a 2026 second and third-round pick in exchange for a 2026 first-round pick, could be beneficial for both parties. This deal would not only bolster the Rams' tight end position but also allow the Falcons to reclaim a first-round pick they previously traded.
The Tennessee Titans might also express interest in Pitts. Following their selection of quarterback Cam Ward with the No. 1 overall pick, his performance will heavily influence the future of 2023 second-round pick Will Levis. Including Levis in a trade package for Pitts could signal a fresh start for both parties. With Pitts offering immediate assistance to Ward’s development, this transaction could address the Titans' offensive needs effectively.
Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns, despite being strapped for cap space, may explore a potential swap involving Pitts and cornerback Greg Newsome II. Given both players' fifth-year options, such a trade could provide the Falcons with much-needed depth in the secondary. However, this trade would depend on the Browns' long-term offensive plans.
Lastly, the Pittsburgh Steelers could enter the fray with a more complex trade involving both Pitts and Cousins. The Falcons could receive a 2026 second and fifth-round pick, as well as a 2027 fourth-round pick in exchange. Although tight end is not a primary need for the Steelers, acquiring Pitts could further enhance their offensive capabilities. Additionally, Cousins could be a viable veteran option should negotiations with other quarterbacks not progress as anticipated.
As interest in Kyle Pitts intensifies, the upcoming months may yield significant changes for the Falcons and the teams eyeing this versatile tight end. As Atlanta weighs their options, Pitts remains a focal point for organizations aiming to strengthen their rosters.








