Kyle Pitts Injury Update: Will His Knee Issue Delay His Return Timeline for Week 15?

Kyle Pitts’ injury status has become a major question for the Atlanta Falcons ahead of their Week 15 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on December 12. The tight end is listed as questionable with a knee injury, putting his availability in doubt at a time when the team is already short-handed.

The Falcons are entering the game at 4–9 and without starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who is out for the season after knee surgery. With receiver Drake London already ruled out, Pitts’ return timeline now carries added importance for an offense struggling to produce consistent results.

Kyle Pitts return timeline and what the injury update means

The Falcons listed Pitts as questionable following limited practice work leading up to Thursday’s game. According to multiple reports from national outlets, including For The Win, the team has monitored his knee issue throughout the week and will determine his final availability closer to kickoff. Pitts has been one of Atlanta’s most productive offensive pieces this season with 62 receptions for 631 yards.

Without Pitts, Atlanta would likely lean on veteran Charlie Woerner, who serves as the second tight end on the depth chart. Woerner is in his sixth season and has been primarily used as a blocking option, which could further limit the Falcons’ passing structure if Pitts cannot go.

The return timeline appears dependent on game-day testing and medical clearance. The Falcons have not released specific details regarding structural concerns or long-term issues, but the questionable designation suggests the team believes there is still a chance that Pitts could participate. This decision is expected to hinge on mobility and stability evaluations performed in warm-ups.

The injury update comes at a challenging moment for a Falcons offense that has scored fewer than 20 points in four of its last five games. Pitts’ presence often dictates how defenses align, and without him, Atlanta risks a more predictable passing game. His potential return would give the Falcons a critical intermediate target and a pressure release for Kirk Cousins or Taylor Heinicke depending on quarterback usage.

How Week 15 could shift for Atlanta

If Pitts plays, the Falcons regain their second-leading receiver and a key matchup tool against Tampa Bay’s linebackers and safeties. If he sits, Atlanta may need to lean more heavily on its run game and shorter throws to compensate for reduced separation threats.

The broader impact centers on Atlanta’s attempt to disrupt Tampa Bay’s playoff push. The Buccaneers are 7–6 and tied atop the NFC South, making this a game where the Falcons can influence divisional standings despite being out of contention themselves. Pitts’ return timeline could play a central role in how competitive the matchup becomes.

Kyle Pitts’ injury update will remain the Falcons’ most important storyline heading into Thursday night. His return timeline is still uncertain, but his availability could determine whether Atlanta’s offense has enough balance to challenge Tampa Bay in Week 15.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Kyle Pitts’ current injury status?

He is listed as questionable for Week 15 with a knee injury. His final availability will be determined before kickoff.

Q2: What is Kyle Pitts’ return timeline?

The team has not provided a specific timeline, but his questionable tag indicates he has a chance to play depending on pregame evaluation.

Q3: Who replaces Kyle Pitts if he cannot play?

Veteran tight end Charlie Woerner will take over primary duties. He is mostly a blocking tight end.

Q4: How would Pitts’ absence affect the Falcons offense?

It would remove their second-leading receiver and limit passing versatility. The offense would rely more heavily on the run game.

Q5: How important is Pitts for Week 15?

His presence could significantly improve Atlanta’s chances against Tampa Bay, especially with Drake London unavailable.