I went to Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Tuesday looking forward to seeing Kyle Pitts in action. It wasn’t a game, scrimmage or full-speed practice. The Falcons are still in shorts at this time of year. But full pads aren’t necessary for Pitts to show off the skills and athleticism that persuaded the Falcons to make him the highest-drafted tight end in NFL history.
How was Pitts moving nearly six months after season-ending knee surgery? Is he on his way back to being the dynamic pass-catcher of his rookie season after a frustrating year of injuries and diminished production? How will Pitts connect with Desmond Ridder, the designated starter at quarterback?
The answers to those questions will have to wait. Pitts isn’t practicing during this week’s minicamp. The soonest he’ll get to practice with the team is when training camp opens about six weeks from now. There’s no need to panic. There is reason to wonder about when Smith will be ready to ramp up for the season.
