Atlanta Falcons 2021 NFL Draft Grades: More talent beyond Kyle Pitts
The Atlanta Falcons entered the 2021 NFL Draft with plenty of intrigue surrounding their early selection. Would it be Kyle Pitts, the dominant tight end with incredible traits, or would it be a quarterback to eventually usher in a new era? The Falcons opted for Pitts, then turned their focus to the secondary and the offensive line.
New general manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Arthur Smith had nine picks to work with in the 2021 draft, and with issues across the board on defense, they had to maximize value.
How did the Atlanta Falcons do in the 2021 NFL Draft? Let’s dive in to the grades for every pick.
Unicorn. Florida. 44. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. player. Kyle Pitts. 4
The offense gets even more dangerous with the selection of Pitts. With Matt Ryan’s contract missing an out for a couple of seasons, it’s still time to go all-in with him at the helm rather than search for the future of the franchise. Pitts joins an elite group of weapons, including two studs on the outside in Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley. Two tight end sets will become more common in Atlanta with Pitts joining Hayden Hurst.
The traits are outstanding with a player of Pitts’ caliber. He can play inline, in the slot, or on the outside. Pitts has the ability to win quickly on the outside and varies up his release to create separation. He’s impressive working up the seam and has great in-air athleticism at the catch point. The “veteran” in him uses his hands well to create throwing windows for his quarterback.
The Atlanta Falcons hit a home run with this selection, and he could be the best player in the class.
Grade: A