There’s no doubt the New York Giants addressed several key roster concerns during the 2025 offseason. The quarterback room looks entirely different, and the defense should get a major lift with the addition of Abdul Carter, the No. 3 overall draft pick. But one position still lacking real impact is tight end.
Last season, the Giants tried to piece things together with a trio of Theo Johnson, Daniel Bellinger, and Chris Manhertz, but the results were underwhelming. Johnson, who started 11 of the 12 games he played, managed only 29 catches on 43 targets and produced a passer rating of 88.4 when targeted.
Meanwhile, Bellinger and Manhertz combined for just 17 receptions across 17 games, highlighting the lack of production at the position. It’s clear the Giants need another weapon in the passing game—and there may be a prime trade target available.
Enter Kyle Pitts.
The Atlanta Falcons’ tight end has been a frequent name in trade rumors this offseason, and multiple teams have reportedly checked in on his availability. Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox recently ranked Pitts fifth on his NFL trade block big board—and for good reason.
The Giants should seriously consider pursuing Pitts in a trade. Their current top tight ends, Johnson and Bellinger, earned mediocre Pro Football Focus grades of 53.6 and 57.2, both outside the league’s top 50 at the position.
While Pitts has struggled with drops (17 over four seasons), his potential as a receiving threat is undeniable. He made the Pro Bowl as a rookie in 2021 after a 1,000-yard season and posted an impressive 80.3 PFF grade, fifth-best among tight ends. Though he’s been used more as a blocker in recent years—a role not suited to his strengths—he still possesses elite ability, especially from the slot or lined up wide.
A trade for Pitts likely wouldn’t cost more than a late Day 2 pick, making it a move worth considering for New York. Outside of rookie Malik Nabers, the Giants’ receiving corps is thin. Darius Slayton, who recently signed a three-year, $36 million extension, had only 39 catches for 573 yards and two touchdowns last year, and hasn’t topped 770 yards in a season since 2019.
Pitts could easily step in as the second option behind Nabers and take pressure off the young wideout. At just 24 years old, he also fits into the Giants’ long-term plans alongside rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart.
Of course, New York’s tight salary cap situation complicates things. GM Joe Schoen doesn’t have much financial flexibility, and Pitts would likely want a new contract in any trade scenario. But with creative structuring—such as backloading the deal—the Giants could make the numbers work.
While the Giants may not be contenders just yet, acquiring a dynamic pass-catcher like Kyle Pitts would be a savvy move that strengthens their offense now and in the future.
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