Key Points
Kyle Pitts Jr. appeared on the Falcons’ estimated injury report on December 8 with a knee issue
Atlanta faces the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday, December 12
Pitts was listed as a limited participant on the non-practice report
The tight end has 62 receptions for 631 yards through Week 14
The Falcons are 4–9 and already eliminated from playoff contention
Engaging Introduction
Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts Jr. has become the latest injury concern heading into a short week, landing on the team’s estimated injury report with a knee issue on December 8. With Atlanta set to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday night, his availability is now one of the biggest questions surrounding the offense.
Why Pitts Appeared on the Injury Report
The Falcons did not hold an on-field practice Monday, but the league-mandated estimated report listed Pitts as a limited participant due to a knee injury. The designation immediately raised concern as Atlanta looks to avoid losing another key pass catcher ahead of a nationally televised divisional matchup.
Wide receiver Drake London was also listed on the report as a non-participant with a separate injury, further complicating the Falcons’ offensive outlook.
Pitts’ 2025 Production and Role in the Offense
Pitts has been one of the few constants in a challenging 2025 season for Atlanta, appearing in every game through Week 14. He has recorded 62 catches for 631 yards and remains one of the most heavily used tight ends in the NFC.
He currently holds a 79.0 grade in PFSN’s TE Impact metric, reflecting his importance as both a matchup weapon and a safety valve for rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
With Atlanta having dropped seven of its last eight games, head coach Raheem Morris continues to lean on Pitts to help stabilize the offense during Penix’s early development.
Short-Week Injuries and What the Falcons Are Saying
At this stage, the Falcons have not confirmed any structural damage to Pitts’ knee. Team sources suggest the listing reflects caution rather than an urgent medical concern, a common practice during short weeks when workload management becomes a factor.
Atlanta is scheduled to release two more injury reports before kickoff. Final clarity on Pitts’ status is expected by Wednesday or early Thursday when the team returns to full practice participation.
What Happens If Pitts Can’t Play?
If Pitts is unavailable against Tampa Bay, the Falcons would likely lean more heavily on tight end Charlie Woerner and increased use of heavier personnel groupings. That shift would significantly alter how Atlanta attacks the Buccaneers’ defense.
Tampa Bay has limited tight end production throughout the season, making Pitts’ presence even more critical if he is cleared to play.
What This Means for Atlanta’s Final Stretch
The Falcons enter Week 15 with a 4–9 record and no remaining playoff hopes. However, the team is focused on finishing the season with momentum and evaluating young talent.
Rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has thrown for 1,982 yards with nine touchdowns and three interceptions. With key weapons potentially limited, the pressure on the rookie would intensify if Pitts and London are both sidelined.
Atlanta’s final games come against the Cardinals, Rams, and Saints—matchups the coaching staff views as developmental opportunities. Pitts’ health will directly influence how the offense is built over those final weeks.
What Happens Next?
Kyle Pitts Jr. remains officially day-to-day. His status for Week 15 should become clearer following Atlanta’s midweek practice reports. Until then, the Falcons will continue preparing multiple offensive game plans based on whether their star tight end is available Thursday night.
