Atlanta Falcons pass catcher Kyle Pitts made headlines when he failed to appear on the field during the first OTAs practice. It wasn't the team's only notable absence, along with quarterback Kirk Cousins. This left the fan base searching for answers as to why a struggling player could possibly hold out of the workouts. While it is a contract year for the tight end, there is zero leverage on the side of Pitts. Another season of frustrations and struggles helped headline a questionable effort and a continued inability to force his way into the offense with any level of consistency.
For a player who was drafted ahead of Micah Parsons and Ja'Marr Chase, to say this has been a frustration would be a vast understatement. However, it appears for once, Pitts has a legitimate excuse dealing with an undisclosed foot injury. It was enough to keep Pitts off the field, but we do have confirmation that the veteran was in the facility.
Kyle Pitts Present for OTAs Despite Being Unable to Take Part in Practice
There was some curiosity regarding #falcons TE Kyle Pitts, who's in the final year of his contract, and his absence during the first OTA. My understanding is Pitts is dealing with a bit of a foot issue and was in the building, just not on the field. This isn't contract related.
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) May 28, 2025
It isn't a surprise that Pitts' reasoning for failing to show up isn't related to any contract disputes. What possible leverage could the pass catcher use? His failures have been well-covered and led to questions as to whether or not he could be traded in the 2025 offseason. While trading the tight-end at his lowest possible value would be a mistake, it is easy to understand the frustration behind.
Months away from the season, this injury isn't a cause for concern just yet. There is only so much benefit Pitts is going to get from going through his fifth OTAs with the team. The only possible downside is reduced time to work with the quarterback
As long as Pitts is able to be ready for Week 1 of the 2025 season, there isn't much reason for concern with the story. It, however, is an on-brand negative way to kick off what will undoubtedly be another year of frustrations for a consistently underachieving player.
It continues the offseason theme as well of underwhelming players grabbing headlines that should belong to the exciting transition to Kyle Pitts. No question, it is the wrong way to start off what is personally a pivotal season for the Falcons' pass catcher.