The Atlanta Falcons announced that tight end Kyle Pitts has been cleared to participate in practice, though with specific modifications to limit his involvement in some drills. This development comes during the early stages of the team‘s training camp as they carefully manage Pitts’ workload to protect his health. Falcons head coach Raheem Morris emphasized the approach is not about sidelining Pitts but adjusting his reps to ensure proper execution and safety.
“It’s not that we’ll keep him out, but we’ll take him off of some things and take some things off of their plates to make sure we get things the right way,”
Morris explained, via ESPN’s Marc Raimondi.
Kyle Pitts Focuses on Progress Amid External Pressure
As Pitts prepares for his fifth NFL season, he remains unfazed by outside criticism surrounding his performance and role in the Falcons’ offense. He openly dismissed negative commentary on social media, highlighting his commitment to focus on the team’s work and not detractors.
“I don’t read that rat poison,”
Pitts said.
I don’t get on Twitter and listen to the bot who can’t come out here in 90-degree weather and come do what we do.
Regarding contract negotiations with Atlanta, Pitts expressed a patient stance, preferring to take things one day at a time as the season’s preparation begins.
“We’ll figure that out at the end. Taking it day by day. Today is the first day of camp.”
Additional Updates Across NFL Training Camps
Beyond the Falcons, other NFL teams are experiencing key developments as they build their rosters in training camp. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ guard Cody Mauch praised the offensive line for its camaraderie and work ethic, calling it one of the best in the league based on his experience.
I don’t have anything else to compare it to in the NFL cause I’ve only been here, but I can’t imagine there’s a better offensive line room anywhere else,
Mauch said.
Every single year we’ve been here, it’s such a great group of guys. It doesn’t really feel like you’re coming into work; it just feels like you’re coming to hang out with your buddies. Obviously, we’re working, we’re grinding here. It is a lot more fun when you enjoy the people that you’re with. I wouldn’t want to play with anybody else than these o-linemen.
The Buccaneers also face uncertainty at quarterback with Michael Pratt sidelined week-to-week due to a back injury, leading the team to consider signing another quarterback. Meanwhile, guard Sua Opeta is still recovering from ACL surgery with no clear timeline for returning to practice, as stated by head coach Todd Bowles. The team has already secured defensive back Christian Izien for their roster, recognizing his consistent contributions to the defense.
Progress and Competition Highlight Other Team Training Camps
At Carolina, wide receiver Hunter Renfrow has drawn praise from head coach Dave Canales for his return to top form, with Canales remarking on Renfrow’s health and precise route running as bright spots during camp.
“I mean, it’s just the Hunter Renfrow I remember,”
Canales said.
So he looks healthy, and I think everyone who’s watched football over the last four or five years remembers what he looks like. And he’s really playing at top form right now. I’m really excited to have him here and to have his family, which is right down the road here, after this practice to be able to just connect with him. And it’s a great story that’s unfolding right in front of our eyes, so it’s really exciting to see him playing out there.”
Meanwhile, in New Orleans, quarterback competition is intensifying as second-round pick Tyler Shough battles with Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener for the starting role. NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport noted Shough’s strong mental approach and work ethic, calling him “made of the right stuff,” but also mentioned there is no immediate deadline to name a starter. Saints safety Justin Reid mentioned the quarterbacks had their best practice day yet on Friday, reflecting the growing intensity of competition within the team.
Other Saints players have also been actively preparing themselves physically, with wide receiver Rashid Shaheed gaining weight to improve durability and running back Kendre Miller shedding pounds after offseason training to feel “normal now, finally.”
Significance of Pitts’ Modified Practice and Falcons’ Camp Outlook
Kyle Pitts being cleared to practice with modifications is a critical step forward for the Falcons as they aim to maximize their offensive potential while protecting their key player’s health. The careful approach to his training camp reps reflects a balance of urgency and caution, highlighting the organization’s determination to see him contribute effectively throughout the season.
As the Falcons adjust their training routines and monitor Pitts’ progress, the outcome of this strategy will likely influence their offensive consistency and overall competitiveness in the upcoming NFL season. Pitts’ disciplined focus amid external criticism also suggests a player resolved to control what he can—his preparation and performance—while letting contract talks follow their own natural course.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Kyle Pitts a sleeper?
A. Kyle Pitts fits the second type of sleeper player I’m targeting, offering great potential at a reasonable cost. This is the first time his average draft position (ADP) falls outside the top 10 tight ends.
Q. Is Kyle Pitts healthy?
A. Pitts has been confirmed as healthy, while Andersen will start camp on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, said Morris. Pitts missed mandatory minicamp because of a foot injury, so this is good news.