Kyle Pitts: The Future of the Falcons or an Untapped Star?

 Kyle Pitts: The Future of the Falcons or an Untapped Star?

If you're a fan of the NFL or follow the Atlanta Falcons, the name Kyle Pitts is one you’ve likely heard often — and with good reason. Pitts, the 6’6” tight end, has been a focal point of conversations ever since he entered the league. But in 2024, fans and analysts are once again asking: Is Kyle Pitts living up to his potential, or is there more he can bring to the game?

The High Expectations: A Glimpse at Kyle Pitts' Start

Kyle Pitts came into the NFL with a reputation that few rookies enjoy. Drafted fourth overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2021, he was the highest-picked tight end in NFL history. Pitts had just come off an incredible college career at Florida, where he earned the John Mackey Award as the nation's best tight end. His skill set was tantalizing—quick, long, and with a catch radius that made quarterbacks feel invincible.

2024: A Year of Reflection

Here we are in 2024, and the conversation around Pitts is evolving. Falcons fans have been torn. Some hail Pitts as a generational talent, while others are frustrated, feeling that his potential remains untapped. While the stats don't always tell the full story, they are important, so let's dive into them.

In his rookie season, Pitts broke records with 1,026 receiving yards, joining elite company. However, his numbers have dipped in the following seasons. Some attribute this to injuries, while others point to the Falcons’ offensive struggles and inconsistent quarterback play.

By 2024, Pitts has found himself in an offense led by rising quarterback Desmond Ridder. Still, many feel that the Falcons haven’t yet figured out how to make Pitts the game-changing weapon they envisioned when they drafted him. In a recent game against the Detroit Lions, Pitts caught just two passes for 15 yards — a performance that left many scratching their heads.

Is Pitts a Victim of the Scheme?

One key debate surrounding Pitts is whether his lack of production is due to his talent or the Falcons' offensive scheme. For most of his career, Pitts has been asked to block and line up traditionally as a tight end, but many analysts argue that he’s more of a wide receiver in a tight end’s body.

Arthur Smith, the Falcons’ head coach, runs a run-heavy offense, which often sidelines Pitts as a focal point. While this strategy works for their other star, running back Bijan Robinson, it leaves fans wondering why Pitts isn't being used more creatively.

In an era when tight ends like Travis Kelce and George Kittle are redefining the position, Pitts has the physical tools to be the next great tight end. Yet, he’s often found blocking or acting as a decoy instead of running routes downfield.

Injuries: A Major Factor

Injuries have also played a part in Pitts’ journey. In 2022, he missed significant time due to a hamstring injury, which undoubtedly slowed his development. Fast forward to 2023 and 2024, and Pitts has been in and out of the lineup with nagging issues. When he’s healthy, Pitts shows flashes of brilliance, but staying on the field consistently has been a challenge.

What the Future Holds: Unlocking Pitts’ Full Potential

So, what’s next for Pitts and the Falcons? The key may lie in the Falcons' offensive system. Pitts has shown that he can be a difference-maker, but the Falcons need to find ways to maximize his strengths. Pitts’ combination of speed, size, and athleticism makes him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses — when he’s utilized correctly.

One possibility could be using Pitts more as a wide receiver, giving him the chance to exploit mismatches against smaller defensive backs. Falcons fans have also called for Pitts to be used in the red zone more often. His size alone makes him an ideal target near the goal line, but the Falcons have been reluctant to feature him in that role.

As for Pitts himself, he remains optimistic. In recent interviews, he’s expressed his desire to be more involved in the offense and to help the Falcons reach the playoffs. For now, though, it seems the ball is in the Falcons’ court. If they can find a way to integrate Pitts into their offense more effectively, the sky’s the limit for this talented player.

The Fans’ Perspective: Is Patience Wearing Thin?

NFL fans are never shy when it comes to voicing their opinions, and Falcons fans are no different. Social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit have been ablaze with discussions about Pitts. Some argue that it’s only a matter of time before Pitts puts it all together, while others are starting to worry that he may never live up to the lofty expectations set for him.

“Kyle Pitts is a WR trapped in a TE’s body. Why can’t we use him like Travis Kelce?” one fan tweeted recently. Another chimed in, “We need to stop using Pitts as a blocker and let him do what he does best — catch the ball.”

Kyle Pitts vs. The NFL's Elite Tight Ends

To understand where Pitts stands, it’s essential to compare him to the league's best tight ends. Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs is often the gold standard, with his ability to find soft spots in defenses and create big plays. George Kittle, meanwhile, is known for his blocking skills as well as his pass-catching ability.

Pitts’ talent is undeniable, but he needs the right opportunities to prove he can hang with the likes of Kelce and Kittle. With the right system and quarterback, Pitts could easily join the ranks of the NFL’s elite tight ends.

2024 and Beyond: The Next Steps

Looking ahead, Pitts' future in the NFL remains bright. He’s still young and has plenty of time to develop into the star many predicted he would be. However, both Pitts and the Falcons need to make adjustments if he is to reach his full potential.

One possible turning point could be a change in offensive strategy. The Falcons’ reliance on the run game has limited Pitts' opportunities, but with a more balanced approach, Pitts could become the centerpiece of their passing attack.

Another factor is his chemistry with Desmond Ridder. As Ridder continues to grow as a quarterback, building a strong connection with Pitts will be crucial. If Ridder and Pitts can develop that trust, there’s no reason Pitts can’t become one of the league's top targets.

The Pitts Predicament

Kyle Pitts’ journey in the NFL is still unfolding, and while there have been ups and downs, the potential is there. Pitts has all the tools to be one of the greatest tight ends the NFL has ever seen, but it’s up to the Falcons to put him in a position to succeed. Whether it's by adjusting their offensive scheme, involving him more in the passing game, or simply keeping him healthy, Pitts’ future is inextricably tied to the Falcons' success.

As fans continue to debate his usage and the Falcons work to maximize his talent, one thing is for sure: Kyle Pitts is a player to watch in the coming years. If the Falcons can unlock his full potential, the NFL could see a new era of tight-end dominance.

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