Updated Feb. 17, 2026, 2:37 p.m. ET

The 2026 NFL free agency period is just around the corner and teams have already begun purging their rosters to clear salary cap space. While the legal tampering period begins on March 9, there’s another time window that Atlanta Falcons fans need to be aware of.

The league’s franchise tag window runs from Feb. 17 through March 3. This tag allows teams to prevent one free agent from signing with another team. For example, if a top player is set to enter free agency — like Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts — the team has the option to sign them to a one-year contract.

The amount of each franchise tag contract is compiled by averaging the five highest-paid players at the position. If the Falcons were to tag Pitts, they would essentially be signing him a one-year, $16,319,000 contract that is fully guaranteed.

So, is Pitts considered a franchise tag candidate for 2026? According to NFL.com writer Judy Battista, the Falcons would likely consider the tag if they can’t reach a long-term deal.

“Until last season, it seemed almost certain that the Falcons would part ways with Pitts, whose production largely fell short of the expectations set by his selection with the fourth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, once his rookie contract expired,” wrote NFL.com’s Judy Battista. “Then Pitts had a career year, finishing with 88 catches for 928 yards and five TDs, and was named second team All-Pro. The new brain trust will have to make a decision on the tag, but it’s hard to imagine Pitts being elsewhere next season.”

Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.

Battista raises a good point regarding the perception around Pitts. One year ago, most fans were ready to move on from the former No. 4 overall pick. However, Pitts was Atlanta’s most consistent target last season, finishing as the leading receiver ahead of Drake London.

For all of the criticism that the 25-year-old has faced, he certainly quieted those doubters in 2025. While the Falcons have to be wary about giving Pitts a long-term deal following a contract year. This is why the franchise tag could be the best option. If Pitts produces at the same level in 2026, Atlanta should have no trouble coughing up the cash.

By tagging Pitts, it would also give the team more time to get its salary cap together for 2027 and beyond. We’ll have to wait and see what the future holds for the young tight end.

Make sure to check out our latest free agent feature highlighting seven free-agent tight end options for the Falcons in 2026.