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Yes, I know the Bengals just picked up Joe Burrow’s former college TE Thaddeus Moss. And yes, I still believe the Bengals would be wrong to miss out on a generational talent at TE like Kyle Pitts.
Both Moss and C.J. Uzomah (current Bengals TE) missed nearly the entire year last season due to injury. Moss with a foot injury that required surgery and Uzomah with a torn Achilles.
You can’t rely on that as a team and knowing what Pitts is capable of makes it that much harder to pass on in the draft.
Kyle Pitts
School: Florida
Position: Tight end
Height: 6’6”
Weight: 245 pounds
Projected Round: Early first
Like the video above says in the title, Kyle Pitts is an NFL unicorn that can change the trajectory of any team that takes him.
During his time at Florida he proved that. His stats got better every season and if it weren’t for missing out on three games last year for the Gators, it would have been that much better. In 2020, Pitts recorded 43 catches for 770 yards to go with 12 touchdowns. Again, you add three more games to that mix and we’re looking at 1,000+ yards and 15+ touchdowns, for a tight end.
Everyone has rightfully been glamorizing over Pitts’ pro day numbers. He ran a 4.44 40, a 10’9” broad jump and a 33.5” vertical leap. His wingspan was also measured at over 83 inches, which is longer than any other wide receiver or tight end in the last 20 years.
But one thing you’re not hearing too much about is his age. He’s only 20 years old. There is a lot more for Pitts to improve on and he has the time to do it.
Fit with the Bengals
This is a perfect fit for the Bengals. Not only are you getting a once-in-a-generation talent, but you’re pairing a reliable pass-catcher AND blocker with your franchise quarterback. Both are young and ready to win now, which is exactly the culture shift the Bengals need.
Going back to his ability to block, with the additional signings the Bengals have made so far on the OL in the offseason, Pitts would fit in great and the Bengals can use the next couple of rounds to pick up and develop more help on that line.
To close, if a guy like Pitts is still available, you take him.
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