Falcons Pro Bowler Already on Thin Ice in 2025 Offseason

The Atlanta Falcons had another disappointing season in 2024. Under new head coach Raheem Morris, the Falcons finished their seventh losing season in a row. The season, which started with expectations of a deep postseason run, ended with an 8-9 record and outside of the playoffs once again.

This will naturally augur significant changes in the roster. What will happen with Kirk Cousins and who the QB1 will be next season remain the biggest questions in Atlanta.

However, that is not the only pressing change that needs to happen on the offensive side of the ball. While the Falcons were a much-improved team on that end of the field under offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, they should have been better. There is enough talent on this team to be a top-ten offensive unit in the league. Finishing 13th in scoring while having a middling passing game leaves plenty to be desired.

One of the biggest factors for this disappointment was the underwhelming play of Kyle Pitts. After proving himself to be one of the most promising young tight ends in the league as a rookie, Pitts failed to live up to the expectations in the following three seasons. Despite playing every game in 2024, the 24-year-old had 47 catches for 602 yards and four touchdowns.

The former fourth-overall pick also had his worst season as a pro, per Pro Football Focus. His 59.6 offensive grade ranked 44th among 75 eligible tight ends. He had four drops and four receiving interceptions while only having a 25% contested catch rate. His average depth of target was also his career low at 8.7.

Pitts seems to be firmly behind Drake London, Bijan Robinson, and Darnell Mooney in the pecking order. He is also entering the final year of his contract after the Falcons picked up his fifth-year option.

Pitts' lack of effort has also been criticized by Falcons fans. He may have worn out his welcome in Atlanta and a fresh start could benefit both sides.

Giving Pitts a lucrative, long-term extension while he is on a downward trend is not a good idea. Pitts is still young and talented enough to have suitors around the league. The Falcons should seriously consider exploring the trade market for him. Instead of letting him walk for nothing in free agency next season, the Falcons could probably get a mid-round draft pick or use him to move up in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.