The Tennessee Titans are gearing up for a new era with rookie quarterback Cam Ward at the helm, and the franchise is making it clear that they want to provide him with the tools necessary to succeed. One potential blockbuster move gaining traction is a trade proposal involving Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts. If executed, this trade could significantly bolster Tennessee’s offense and give Ward a dynamic playmaker in the middle of the field.
Why Kyle Pitts Makes Sense for the Titans
Kyle Pitts, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, entered the league with high expectations. Regarded as a generational talent at the tight end position, Pitts drew comparisons to Hall of Famers due to his rare combination of size (6’6”, 245 lbs), speed, and receiving ability. In his rookie season, he flashed his potential by eclipsing 1,000 receiving yards—becoming just the second rookie tight end in NFL history to do so. However, injuries, inconsistent quarterback play, and scheme issues have limited his production since then.
Now, entering his fourth season and with a new regime in Atlanta, Pitts’ future with the Falcons is uncertain. Reports suggest the team is open to trading him, especially as he deals with an undisclosed injury that’s kept him sidelined for OTAs. While Atlanta may not be eager to give up on Pitts, his reduced role and the emergence of other offensive weapons have made him expendable.
This is where the Titans come in.
Tennessee’s Offensive Needs
Tennessee’s offense remains a work in progress. After using the No. 1 overall pick on Cam Ward—an electrifying quarterback out of Washington State—the Titans are focused on surrounding him with weapons. So far, they’ve added veteran wideouts Tyler Lockett and Van Jefferson to join Calvin Ridley and Treylon Burks. While the receiver room has improved on paper, it still lacks a true game-changer, and more importantly, there’s a glaring hole at tight end.
Currently, Chigoziem Okonkwo sits atop the depth chart at the position. While Okonkwo is a solid athlete with upside, he has yet to prove himself as a consistent difference-maker. Adding a player like Pitts would not only elevate the tight end group but also create mismatches across the field that opposing defenses would struggle to handle.
A Perfect Fit for Cam Ward
Rookie quarterbacks historically benefit from a strong tight end—someone who can be a reliable target on short and intermediate routes, especially under pressure. Pitts has the physical tools to be that safety valve, while also providing big-play ability after the catch. With Pitts in the fold, Ward would have a versatile option that complements the Titans’ existing receivers and gives offensive coordinator Nick Holz the flexibility to be creative with formations and personnel.
What a Trade Might Look Like
Given Pitts’ draft pedigree and potential, the Falcons would likely ask for significant compensation. A second-round pick and a mid-round selection in 2026 might get the deal done, especially if the Falcons believe it’s time to reset and allocate resources elsewhere. The Titans, with a young quarterback on a rookie deal, are in a position to be aggressive—knowing that they can afford to spend draft capital to acquire proven talent.
Risk vs. Reward
There is some risk involved. Pitts has battled injuries and has not yet reached the elite production many anticipated. However, the upside remains tantalizing. At just 24 years old, he still has room to develop and could thrive in a new environment with a team that plans to feature him more heavily in its offensive scheme.
Final Thoughts
If the Titans are serious about accelerating Cam Ward’s development and building a competitive offense, trading for Kyle Pitts could be a game-changing move. It would signal that the organization is committed to surrounding their rookie quarterback with the kind of talent that could transform Tennessee into a playoff contender sooner rather than later.
For Atlanta, moving on from Pitts could open up new opportunities to reshape their offense and acquire valuable draft assets.
All eyes will be on both teams as the trade winds continue to swirl—because if a deal does happen, it could redefine the future for two franchises.
