Falcons' Pitts won't return this season after undergoing knee surgery

Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts was ruled out for the rest of the season after undergoing knee surgery, head coach Arthur Smith announced Wednesday, according to team reporter Tori McElhaney.

Pitts suffered an MCL tear in Week 11. He was placed on injured reserve Nov. 21 and was set to miss at least four games.

Pitts, the fourth overall pick in 2021, finishes this campaign with 28 receptions for 356 yards, down from 68 catches and 1,026 yards last year. He caught two touchdowns in 2022, one more than last season.

The Falcons are still in the playoff race with a 5-7 record, as they sit second in the NFC South behind the 5-6 Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Atlanta is two games behind the 7-5 Washington Commanders, who occupy the third wild-card spot in the NFC.

Atlanta also rosters tight ends MyCole Pruitt, Anthony Firkser, and Parker Hesse. Pruitt caught a touchdown on two receptions in Sunday's loss to the Commanders, bringing his 2022 total to six receptions for 34 yards and two scores.

Rookie wide receiver Drake London tops the Falcons with 41 catches and four TD receptions.