ON HOLD: Why Atlanta Falcons WON’T Trade Kyle Pitts in 2026

In this episode of Locked On Falcons, host Aaron Freeman dissects the absence of a Kyle Pitts trade during the 2026 NFL Draft, arguing that despite speculation, no realistic trade scenario materialized. He explains that teams like the Denver Broncos and Philadelphia Eagles passed on Pitts by drafting their own tight ends, while the Kansas City Chiefs lack both cap space and urgency, especially with Patrick Mahomes’ recovery timeline. Freeman concludes that Pitts is likely staying with the Falcons through the 2026 season on the franchise tag, with any potential extension or trade deferred until after the season. The episode then shifts to analyze missed tradeback opportunities, where several teams jumped ahead of the Falcons in the draft without contacting Atlanta, costing the Falcons up to seven additional picks. Freeman highlights four key trades where the Rich Hill trade value chart accurately reflected pick values, suggesting it’s a more reliable tool than the older Jimmy Johnson model. He notes that teams misread the Falcons’ strategy—particularly in rounds two and three—due to the new GM’s unproven approach, leading to wasted opportunities. The episode ends with a preview of an upcoming guest interview and a plug for the Everydayer Club membership.