Stefanski noted the core pieces already in place, including quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and playmakers Bijan Robinson and Drake London. He also hinted that, if the Falcons decide to keep him, former first-round tight end Kyle Pitts could remain a part of the plan.
Pitts enters the 2026 offseason as an unrestricted free agent with a market value around $10.8 million per year (four years, $43.3 million). That status gives Atlanta a significant decision to make about his long-term future with the franchise.
Pitts has had a roller-coaster run since entering the NFL, earning Pro Bowl honors as a rookie but posting just 15 touchdowns over five seasons. He showed signs of bounce-back production in 2025 with 928 receiving yards and a career-high five touchdowns, though Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay predicts he could wind up with the Miami Dolphins.
Kay argued that Miami, under new head coach Jeff Hafley, could use a proven pass-catching threat at tight end to complement a developing offense, especially if the quarterback situation remains fluid in 2026. The report noted Pitts’ obviously disruptive skill set as a fit for a Dolphins offense in need of playmaking.
When asked about Pitts, Stefanski refused to reveal roster specifics and stressed that discussions will happen in due course: “We’ll talk at length more about that when it comes to those types of roster conversations.” He added he’s not a “tight end whisperer,” but called the position an “aficionado” because of its versatility.
If Atlanta does keep Pitts, Stefanski’s offense could potentially unlock a higher ceiling for him, echoing the way David Njoku produced consistently during Stefanski’s time in Cleveland. Njoku’s production—272 receptions, 2,783 yards and 23 touchdowns in six seasons—serves as a reference point for the kind of impact Pitts could deliver under Stefanski.
