Pitts led the team with 928 receiving yards and five touchdowns this season, making his retention a priority despite his injury history. The fifth-year tight end will be just 25 years old next season as he looks to build on his breakout performance.
The NFL community reacted with mixed emotions, with some lamenting the loss of the top free agent while others praised the move to retain the young talent. The franchise tag value of roughly $16 million ensures the former top-five pick remains in Atlanta.