Kyle Pitts contract shows tight ends lagging behind NFL salary surge

The NFL's 2026 contract season highlights significant pay increases for most offensive positions, yet tight ends remain stagnant. Despite Kyle Pitts achieving a franchise tag and setting a record with $36 million guaranteed, his $53 million three-year contract places him third among tight ends. George Kittle's $19.1 million per year remains the highest, with Trey McBride and Isaiah Likely not far behind. Meanwhile, the blocking tight end market has seen notable growth, as Darnell Washington's recent extension marks a new high at $10.5 million annually.

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