Kyle Pitts has barely been involved in the Atlanta Falcons’ passing game as he has caught just two passes for 20 yards on six targets this season… However, tonight’s matchup with the New Orleans Saints could give him a chance to change that.
The Saints have allowed 247 receiving yards to tight ends this season, the fourth most in the NFL, according to Darius Hayes. If the Falcons are looking to get Pitts more involved, New Orleans presents an opportunity to do it.
But Pitts needs more than a favorable matchup. Atlanta has to make a point of getting him the ball.
Because Pitts just hasn’t been a major part of Atlanta’s passing attack so far. His 58.9% route share and 7.6% target share, according to FantasyPros, reflect how limited his involvement has been. He has also produced just 0.38 yards per route run.
Those numbers are a long way from what the Falcons need from a player with Pitts’ ability meaning they may need to be more deliberate about finding him. Getting Pitts involved early could help build his confidence and give the offense another reliable option as the game develops.
Saints’ defense could give Kyle Pitts room to make plays
The New Orleans Saints have struggled to contain tight ends through the opening weeks, which creates a potential opening for Kyle Pitts, especially if the Atlanta Falcons move him around the formation to get him matched up against defenders in space.
The Falcons don’t necessarily need to overhaul their offense to take advantage. A few designed looks, targets over the middle or opportunities to use Pitts after the catch could help get him going. The important part is making him a more consistent presence rather than waiting for the defense to leave him open.
Now Monday’s game won’t automatically become a breakout performance for Pitts. A favorable matchup only goes so far if Atlanta doesn’t make it a point to him as part of the game plan or if the offense struggles to move the ball.
Still, the opportunity is there. The Saints have given up plenty of yards to tight ends, and Pitts has the talent to take advantage if the Falcons get him involved--and Kevin Stefanski's offense loves to get tight ends involved, so they should. In fact, it's a surprise they have yet to utilize him as much after paying him this offseason.
With Atlanta looking to improve its offensive production, giving Pitts a larger role could provide a needed boost for Michael Penix Jr. in his second start of the year
The matchup offers a chance but analysts said the same thing last week. It’s up to the Falcons to make sure Kyle Pitts gets the opportunities to use it.
Add us as a preferred source on Google