Kyle Pitts brings in two spectacular catches in breakout win over Dolphins

Kyle Pitts is looking like the offensive weapon the Atlanta Flacons hoped for when they selected him fourth overall in the 2021 NFL draft.

The former Gator played a crucial role in the Falcons’ 30-28 win over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. Pitts brought in a pair of spectacular catches, including what ended up being the game-sealing reception for Atlanta after getting into field goal range. He led the Falcons in receptions with seven and yards with 163. Although he didn’t get a touchdown this week, this is Pitts’ second game in a row going over 100 yards receiving.

Despite being limited in the preseason, Pitts has developed about as nicely as you could ask for when it comes to a top-five draft pick. Targeted eight times in the season opener against Philadelphia, Pitts only brought in four of those passes for 31 yards. Six weeks later, and the numbers are completely different. In his last two games, Pitts has caught 16 of the last 18 passes thrown in his direction.

Florida relied on Pitts often during his time in Gainesville and Matt Ryan is learning to trust the young playmaker as the season goes on. Calvin Ridley, the team’s lead receiver, only brought in four of his 10 targets, so having a safety net at tight end made all the difference this week.

Pitts’ success is mildly unsurprising given his natural athleticism, especially to Gators fans, but the delayed breakout had plenty of people questioning if the fourth overall pick was worth it or not. It’s safe to say Pitts answered those criticisms resoundingly this week in a breakout performance.

Follow us @GatorsWire on Twitter and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.