Struggling former first-rounder tight end Kyle Pitts might wind up with a new team after the 2024 season is over. According to reports, the Atlanta Falcons are using a fifth-year option on him that keeps him through 2025 but it shouldn’t be a surprise if the two sides agree to part ways. However, the Falcons might want to trade him to get some value in return but the chances of that happening are low considering the frustration of the organization with his play. Despite putting up a 1,000-yard rookie season as the only player next to Mike Ditka being the first to record those numbers in NFL history, it might not be enough for the rest of the years he’s been lacking.
Originally selected in the 2021 NFL Draft, former Pro Bowler was on his way to being a reliable perimeter pass catcher that could be viable for any quarterback under center. The Falcons are no stranger to benching players if that’s what it takes, including putting veteran Kirk Cousins to fill the backup role while they bringing in rookie Michael Penix Jr. to start. These situations with a lack of supporting cast didn’t hold back Bijan Robinson or Drake London so if they don’t see any improvement from Pitts, it shouldn’t be a surprise if they bench him. Pitts went from a promising “absolute freak” to a “major disappointment” quickly in the last three seasons.
However, he could revitalize his career with two contenders playing alongside superstars where one could hope to increase his production. Pitts might not land a long-term deal but if he joins a postseason team, he has a chance to rewrite what critics are saying about him.
“Struggling” Former First Rounder Kyle Pitts May Be Traded – Chiefs, Chargers Next Teams?
New Juice in Kansas City?
The Kansas City Chiefs are in the driver’s seat with the best record in the NFL hoping for a three-peat. However, Patrick Mahomes hasn’t been the same quarterback that everyone remembers the past few seasons. While one could blame the pass catchers for not creating separation and getting open for Mahomes to complete passes. The reality is that Mahomes hasn’t been able to connect with several weapons like star veteran Travis Kelce.
Before the season, there were teasers that Kelce could retire soon but he denied those rumors but as each game flies by, it becomes more imminent that he will hang up his cleats. It would be a hard blow to the offense with already Marquise Brown and DeAndre Hopkins set to become free agents in 2025. Pitts might not have a reliable set of hands but being a part of one of the best coaching staffs, he probably has no other excuse. Mahomes may arguably be like a modern-day Tom Brady and make any incoming pass catcher a star in Kansas City.
More Weapons for Herbert
Head Coach Jim Harbaugh might want to rely on the ground game to win football games, but he must rewire the wide receiving corps first before that happens. Quarterback Justin Herbert is known to thrive in the passing game so the chances of them running the ball will be up to the coaching staff. Herbert prefers to pass but the Chargers didn’t do enough to bring in reliable stars to make life easier for him. DJ Chark is playing out his one-year deal while Quentin Johnston is still looking rusty.
However, rookie Ladd McConkey shows a lot of promise but they lack a lot of size which could be an issue if they can secure the ball. Kyle Pitts has his struggles but he might find his rhythm in Los Angeles playing behind a quarterback who can get him in the mix. Herbert is famous for getting everyone the football, including tight end Will Dissly. Pitts might be a reliable pass blocker as the Chargers still need some relief on their offensive line to help Herbert get extra time in the pocket.
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