Kyle Pitts Trade Speculation as NFL OTAs Begin

As the NFL calendar transitions into organized team activities (OTAs), trade rumors are gaining momentum. Notably, discussions are surrounding former Pro Bowler Kyle Pitts of the Atlanta Falcons. While Kirk Cousins has often been at the center of trade speculations this offseason, Pitts is now emerging as a focal point in potential trade discussions. The tight end, recognized for his Pro Bowl selection during his rookie season in 2021, has seen a decline in his utilization and is approaching the final year of his rookie contract.
According to reports from Fox Sports' Jordan Schultz, multiple teams have reached out to inquire about Pitts' availability. However, the Falcons reportedly have a preference to retain the 24-year-old tight end. Nonetheless, with concerns about future salary cap constraints — Atlanta currently holds approximately $5.3 million in cap space — the franchise might entertain the right trade offer. Pitts is projected to become a free agent next offseason, carrying a $10.9 million price tag on his fifth-year option, which makes his situation particularly intriguing for potential buyers. A thorough examination points toward several suitors who could pursue Pitts, along with speculative trade packages that could capture the Falcons' interest.
One proposed trade scenario involves the New England Patriots, who would acquire Pitts while sending Atlanta a combination of a 2026 third-round pick, a 2026 fourth-round pick, and tight end Austin Hooper. Despite Pitts failing to surpass 1,000 receiving yards since his rookie campaign and dealing with a foot issue that has sidelined him during early OTAs, his potential as a dynamic asset remains intact. The Patriots, who are building their roster around second-year quarterback Drake Maye, might find Pitts a valuable addition, particularly as their current tight ends, Hunter Henry and Hooper, are both aging and approaching free agency.
The Washington Commanders represent another potential landing spot for Pitts. They too are developing their offense around a promising second-year quarterback, Jayden Daniels, who displayed substantial potential as the Offensive Rookie of the Year. With tight end Zach Ertz contributing significantly as a pass-catcher last season, the Commanders could bolster their offense by adding Pitts. Even with Ertz re-signed and the presence of 2024 second-round pick Ben Sinnott, acquiring Pitts would lend Washington a robust tight end duo and an edge in scheming mismatches against opposing defenses.
Examining the Los Angeles Rams, they too appear to be viable contenders for Pitts' services. With tight end Tyler Higbee entering the final year of his contract at age 32, combining Pitts with emerging talents like Puka Nacua and Davante Adams could provide the Rams with a formidable offensive weapon. Rams quarterbacks coach Dave Ragone, a former offensive coordinator for the Falcons during Pitts' rookie season, could potentially leverage this familiarity to maximize Pitts' contributions in the offense. This trade could allow the Falcons to recover their 2026 first-round pick, which they forfeited in a previous draft transaction.
The Tennessee Titans are also in a position to pursue Pitts after recently securing quarterback Cam Ward as their first overall pick. With questions regarding the future of 2023 second-round pick Will Levis, the Titans might consider including him in a trade package to Atlanta that exchanges Pitts for Levis and a 2026 third and seventh-round pick. The additional tight end depth could enhance Ward's supporting cast in Tennessee.
Lastly, the Cleveland Browns could offer an interesting player-for-player trade involving Pitts and cornerback Greg Newsome II. While the Browns face financial constraints, trading Newsome II would provide room to maneuver in their salary cap. As both players are under fifth-year options, this deal could serve each team’s needs for immediate evaluations of their young talent amidst pressing roster considerations. Following a similar trend, the Pittsburgh Steelers could also present a compelling scenario where they would acquire both Pitts and Cousins in exchange for a 2026 second, a 2026 fifth, and a 2027 fourth-round pick. While tight end is not a critical requirement for the Steelers, Pitts could help bridge the gap in offensive firepower opposite Pat Freiermuth.
As teams assess their immediate needs and potential long-term visions, the landscape surrounding Kyle Pitts remains dynamic as the NFL offseason progresses.








