The Falcons won’t be letting tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. fly the coop.
Per multiple reports, the Falcons are expected to apply the franchise tag to Pitts. The 2026 franchise tag for tight ends is expected to land in the range of $16 million for one season.
Pitts landed at No. 6 on the PFT list of 2026 free agents.
The fourth overall pick in the 2021 draft, Pitts has never fully lived up to the potential that made him a top-five pick. He has one 1,000-yard receiving season. That came in his rookie year, which also was the last year in Atlanta for quarterback Matt Ryan. Ryan is now the president of football operations.
In 2025, Pitts had a career-high 88 catches for 928 yards and a career-high five touchdown receptions. His season, which ended with a second-team All-Pro recognition, was highlighted by an 11-catch, 166-yard, three-touchdown performance during a Thursday night game in Tampa.
The Falcons and Pitts will have until July 15 to negotiate a multi-year contract.
The statement from the NFL Players Association strongly hinted at the cause of the sudden passing of Vikings receiver Rondale Moore on Saturday. Via the Associated Press, police in New Albany, Indiana, have said that Moore died of a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The official cause of death is pending an autopsy scheduled for Sunday.
It’s a tragic situation, one that happens far too often. Even though many who are dealing with depression and other mental-health issues seek help, many suffer in silence.
Even if friends, family, and teammates are looking for any signs of distress, sometimes there are none until it’s too late.
The message is clear. If you’re struggling, say something. To someone. To anyone. There’s always someone who will help you. You may think there isn’t, but there is.
The world has changed. No longer does anyone believe that it’s a sign of weakness to be vulnerable. And most understand the importance of reacting quickly when someone in their personal orbit needs help.
If all else fails, call or text 988. There’s not a single person whose absence would not affect multiple other people, in many different ways. During a November 2025 60 Minutes feature regarding the problem of suicides among farmers, Jolie Foreman of Shelby County Cares said that every suicide directly affects 130 people.
Some affect many more than that. Each one that happens should serve as a reminder to all of us that we need to be ready to seek help when we need it, and to give help when it’s requested. You can save a life. You can save your own.
The Vikings have issued a statement following the sudden passing of receiver Rondale Moore, who died Saturday at age 25.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rondale Moore,” the Vikings said. “While we are working to understand the facts, we have spoken with Rondale’s family to offer our condolences and the full support of the Minnesota Vikings. We have also been in communication with our players, coaches, and staff, and will make counseling and emotional support resources available to anyone in need. Our thoughts are with Rondale’s family and friends during this devastating time.”
The Vikings issued a separate statement from coach Kevin O’Connell.
“I am devastated by the news of Rondale’s death,” O’Connell said. “While Rondale had been a member of the Vikings for a short time, he was someone we came to know well and care about deeply. He was a humble, soft-spoken, and respectful young man who was proud of his Indiana roots. As a player, he was disciplined, dedicated and resilient despite facing adversity multiple times as injuries sidelined him throughout his career. We are all heartbroken by the fact he won’t continue to live out his NFL dream and we won’t all have a chance to watch him flourish. My prayers are with Rondale’s family, friends, teammates and coaches as we all deal with this tragic news.”
Moore signed with the Vikings last March, after three years with the Cardinals and one with the Falcons. He was a second-round pick in 2021.
The NFL Players Association has issued a statement following the passing of Vikings receiver Rondale Moore. He was only 25.
“The NFL Players Association is devastated by the sudden and tragic passing of Rondale Moore,” the union said. “This immense loss is felt deeply across our union, and we value his service as a player rep. Our condolences and prayers are with Rondale’s family, teammates, and loved one during this incredibly difficult time.
“In moments like this we are reminded of how much our players carry, on and off the field. To our members: Please know that support is always within reach. Check on your teammates and prioritize your mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling, we encourage you to take advantage of the many confidential resources available to you through the NFLPA.”
It’s true for everyone who needs assistance of any kind. Help is available. Seek it. Give it. One simple phone call or text can make all the difference.
Vikings receiver Rondale Moore has died. He was 25.
Via WLKY in Louisville, the Floyd County Coroner confirmed Moore’s passing. Louisville coach Jeff Brohm, who coached Moore at Purdue, addressed the situation in a statement released on Saturday night.
“Rondale Moore was a complete joy to coach,” Brohm said, via WLKY. “The ultimate competitor that would never back down to any challenge. Rondale has a work ethic that was unmatched by anyone. A great teammate that would come through in any situation. we all loved Rondale and we loved his smile and competitive edge that always wanted to please everyone he came in contact with. We offer all of our thoughts and prayers to Rondale and his family and we love him very much!!!”
A second-round pick of the Cardinals in 2021, Moore was traded to the Falcons in March 2024. He suffered a season-ending knee injury in training camp that year.
Moore signed a one-year deal with the Vikings in March 2025. He suffered a season-ending knee injury in the preseason opener against the Texans.
We extend our condolences to Moore’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches.
