Kyle Pitts contract shows tight ends lagging behind NFL salary surge
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 12, 2026, 7:25 PM
Last updated Aug 12, 2026
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.
- •NFL salaries surged in 2026 but tight ends lag significantly.
- •Kyle Pitts signed a three-year, $53 million deal with Atlanta Falcons.
- •George Kittle remains the highest-paid tight end at $19.1 million per year.
- •Darnell Washington's extension made him the first blocking tight end over $10 million per year.
- •The gap between top tight ends and block tight ends has narrowed significantly.
- 7:25 PMCBS NFL — Agent's Take: Why NFL tight ends have been left behind by contract boom, plus 3 stars who could reset market
"Tucker Kraft, Sam LaPorta and Brock Bowers could finally push the tight end market to new heights
Sources
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