Kyle Pitts Trade Rumors: Should the Giants Make a Move?

Kyle Pitts Trade Rumors Heat Up

Recent reports suggest the Atlanta Falcons are fielding calls about potential trades for tight end Kyle Pitts. While no deal is imminent, NFL insiders indicate the Falcons may be open to moving the former first-round pick for the right offer. This has sparked speculation about potential landing spots for Pitts, with the New York Giants emerging as a team to watch.

Why the Giants Are Linked to Pitts

CBS Sports recently listed the New York Giants as a top trade destination for Kyle Pitts. There are several reasons why this potential pairing makes sense:

• The Giants offense struggled mightily in 2024, averaging just 16 points per game
• New York lacks playmakers and secondary receiving options beyond Malik Neighbors
• At only 24 years old, Pitts could be a long-term piece for the Giants
• Head coach Brian Daboll could creatively utilize Pitts' unique skill set
• Pitts would provide a reliable target for new QB Russell Wilson and potential future QB Jackson Dart

Evaluating Kyle Pitts as a Trade Target

Pitts' NFL Career So Far

Kyle Pitts entered the NFL with sky-high expectations as the 4th overall pick in 2021. His rare combination of size (6'6", 250 lbs) and athleticism (4.44 40-yard dash) had many projecting him as a generational talent at tight end. However, his NFL production has not quite lived up to the hype so far:

• 2021: 68 catches, 1,026 yards, 1 TD
• 2022: 28 catches, 356 yards, 2 TDs (10 games)
• 2023: 53 catches, 667 yards, 3 TDs
• 2024: 51 catches, 635 yards, 4 TDs

While Pitts had an impressive rookie season, his numbers have declined since then. Injuries and inconsistent quarterback play in Atlanta have likely contributed to his lack of elite production.

Contract Situation

Pitts is currently playing on his fully guaranteed 5th-year option, which carries a $10.8 million cap hit in 2025. Any team trading for him would take on that salary. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026 without an extension.

Potential Trade Cost

Early reports suggest the Falcons are seeking Day 2 draft picks (2nd or 3rd round) in exchange for Pitts. For a player with his pedigree and potential, this seems like a reasonable asking price. However, his declining production may lead to a slightly lower final trade value.

Pros of Trading for Kyle Pitts

1. Elite Physical Tools: Pitts still possesses the rare size/speed combination that made him such a coveted prospect. His potential remains tantalizing.

2. Young Age: At just 24 years old, Pitts theoretically has many productive seasons ahead of him.

3. Scheme Fit: Brian Daboll's creative offensive system could unlock Pitts' versatility as both an in-line tight end and detached receiver.

4. Red Zone Threat: Despite inconsistent overall production, Pitts has flashed as a dangerous red zone target. The Giants have lacked a reliable big-bodied option near the goal line.

5. Upgrade Over Current TEs: New York's current tight end depth chart (Daniel Bellinger, Chris Manhertz, Lawrence Cager) lacks proven playmakers. Pitts would immediately become TE1.

6. Support for Wilson/Dart: Adding another reliable pass-catcher would help ease Russell Wilson's transition to the Giants' offense and potentially aid in Jackson Dart's future development.

Cons of Trading for Kyle Pitts

1. Declining Production: Pitts has not come close to matching his rookie year numbers over the past three seasons. There's risk he may never reach his perceived ceiling.

2. High Cap Hit: Taking on Pitts' $10.8 million salary would eat up most of the Giants' remaining cap space without corresponding moves.

3. Future Contract: If Pitts does excel in New York, he'll likely command a massive extension. The Giants would need to be prepared for that financial commitment.

4. Draft Capital: New York already traded away their 2025 3rd round pick to move up for Jackson Dart. Further depleting future draft assets carries risk.

5. Theo Johnson's Development: The Giants spent a 4th round pick on TE Theo Johnson in 2024. Trading for Pitts could stunt his growth and limit his opportunities.

6. Opportunity Cost: Using resources on Pitts may prevent the Giants from addressing other roster needs via trade or free agency.

Giants' Current Tight End Situation

Before deciding whether to pursue Kyle Pitts, it's important to evaluate the Giants' current tight end depth chart:

Theo Johnson

• 2024 4th round pick
• Raw prospect with intriguing athleticism
• Coaching staff has praised his potential
• Limited production as a rookie

Daniel Bellinger

• 2022 4th round pick
• Solid rookie season, but production has declined
• May be fighting for a roster spot in 2025

Chris Manhertz

• Veteran blocking specialist
• Limited receiving threat

Lawrence Cager

• Former UDFA, on his third NFL team
• Has flashed occasionally as a receiver

Thomas Fidone

• 2025 7th round pick
• Developmental prospect

While there is some young potential in this group, none of these players project as difference-making receivers in the near future. This lack of proven playmaking ability at tight end is why the Giants are being linked to Kyle Pitts.

Financial Considerations

The Giants currently have limited cap space, with just $3.9 million available according to OverTheCap. Taking on Pitts' $10.8 million salary would require corresponding moves to create space. Some potential options include:

• Restructuring Brian Burns' contract
• Restructuring Andrew Thomas' deal
• Restructuring Dexter Lawrence's contract
• Potential veteran cuts or trades

While it's possible to make the financials work, it would require some salary cap maneuvering by GM Joe Schoen.

Draft Capital Situation

The Giants' 2025 draft picks:

• 1st Round
• 2nd Round
• 4th Round
• 5th Round
• Two 6th Round Picks

Notably absent is their 3rd round selection, which was traded to Houston in the deal to move up for QB Jackson Dart. This limits New York's ability to meet Atlanta's reported asking price of Day 2 picks without dipping into 2026 draft capital.

Potential Trade Scenarios

Based on reported asking prices and the Giants' draft capital, here are some potential trade frameworks:

1. Giants send 2025 2nd round pick to Falcons for Kyle Pitts
2. Giants send 2025 4th round pick + 2026 3rd round pick to Falcons for Kyle Pitts
3. Giants send 2025 2nd round pick to Falcons for Kyle Pitts + 2025 4th round pick

The exact compensation would depend on negotiations between the two front offices and how the rest of the league values Pitts.

Final Verdict: Should the Giants Trade for Kyle Pitts?

After weighing all the factors, here's a final assessment on whether the New York Giants should pursue a trade for Kyle Pitts:

Recommendation: Cautious Interest

The Giants should express interest in Kyle Pitts, but avoid overpaying given his recent production and their own roster constraints. Here's a suggested approach:

1. Make an Offer: Propose a trade centered around their 2025 4th round pick and a conditional 2026 pick based on Pitts' performance/playing time.

2. Set a Ceiling: Be willing to include the 2025 2nd round pick, but only if receiving additional draft capital in return (e.g. Atlanta's 4th rounder).

3. Explore Extension: Before finalizing any deal, gauge Pitts' interest in a long-term extension at a reasonable rate. Avoid trading assets for a one-year rental.

4. Create Cap Space: Work on restructuring existing contracts to accommodate Pitts' salary without compromising roster flexibility.

5. Have a Backup Plan: If the price for Pitts is too high, pivot to exploring the free agent market for tight end help in 2026.

Kyle Pitts remains an intriguing talent who could potentially thrive in a new environment. However, the Giants must balance the allure of his potential with the reality of his recent production and their own roster-building goals. A measured approach that sets clear limits on trade compensation is the wisest path forward.

Ultimately, if Atlanta's asking price drops or they're willing to take on some of Pitts' 2025 salary, a deal could make sense for New York. But the Giants shouldn't feel pressured to overpay for a player who has yet to consistently produce at an elite level in the NFL.

Regardless of the outcome with Pitts, it's clear the Giants need to continue seeking playmaking upgrades to support Russell Wilson in 2025 and build a more dynamic offense for the future.

Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ilrqtlfOg0M