Kyle Pitts Shines Bright: A Breakthrough Performance for the Falcons’ Star Tight End
Kyle Pitts Sr. has made headlines after being named the NFC Offensive Player of the Week, following a stunning display against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday night. The Atlanta Falcons tight end delivered an impressive performance, amassing 166 receiving yards and three touchdowns on 11 catches, all of which represent career highs.
This accolade marks the first time Pitts has received any form of recognition during his tenure with the Falcons. It raises intriguing questions about his trajectory within the franchise moving forward.
Stepping Up in Tough Times
With Drake London sidelined due to injury, Pitts stepped into the role of the Falcons’ primary receiving option. His performance not only marked his first 100-yard receiving game since his rookie season but also showcased his ability to find the end zone multiple times in a single game for just the second time in his career.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris praised Pitts, noting, “He was able to go out there and get the plays called to him. When you make those plays early, you show that kind of confidence – you keep going back to him.” He likened Pitts’ momentum to that of a hot shooter on a basketball court, emphasizing how once a player gets going, they become a focal point of the offense.
Offensive coordinator Zac Robinson echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the coaching staff anticipated a standout game for Pitts based on matchups against the Buccaneers. Pitts seized the opportunity, showcasing his skills and resilience in the absence of London.
Pitts on the Rise
Following his breakout performance, Pitts is now on track to finish the season with an impressive 968 receiving yards, a notable increase from his previous season’s total of 1,026 yards. Currently, he trails only Trey McBride among tight ends in yardage this season, with 1,071 yards. Remarkably, nearly half of Pitts’ total production has come in the last four games, where he has accumulated 363 yards.
At just 25 years old, Pitts continues to develop his craft. Even though he is in his fifth season, he is only a year older than Travis Kelce was when he recorded his first NFL reception. Expectations were sky-high when Pitts entered the league, and while his rookie season hinted at greatness, injuries hindered his performance in subsequent years.
Yet, there remains a sense that the ‘Unicorn’ tight end, much like Kelce after turning 25, is only beginning to tap into his full potential.
Future Uncertain but Promising
As Pitts approaches the final year of his rookie contract, uncertainty looms over his future with the Falcons. However, Thursday’s electrifying performance served as a compelling reminder of his capabilities and what he can bring to the table in any given game.
With London potentially returning for the Falcons’ upcoming match against the Arizona Cardinals, it will be crucial to observe how Pitts’ production adapts. The dynamics of the Falcons’ offense could shift significantly, and how Pitts navigates this change may well influence his standing with the franchise moving forward.
