2021 NFL Draft: Atlanta Falcons select Kyle Pitts impacting Miami Dolphins plans

The Atlanta Falcons have used the fourth-overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft to select Florida tight end Kyle Pitts. While the pick makes sense for the Falcons, who are looking to extend the window of quarterback Matt Ryan by surrounding him with weapons, the selection directly impacts the Miami Dolphins’ presumed draft plans.

The Dolphins, holding the sixth-overall pick, are believed to have had Pitts atop their draft board. While tight end is not the team’s top need, the talent and potential of Pitts pushed him up to the top of Miami’s targets. The idea of pairing Pitts with Mike Gesicki in a two tight end set for the Dolphins was too tempting to pass up.

Miami is likely now hoping the Cincinnati Bengals, with the fifth pick, do not select LSU wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase. If Cincinnati does elect to reunite Chase with his college quarterback, Joe Burrow, Miami will either try to trade back or make a decision between Oregon offensive tackle Penei Sewell or one of the two Alabama receivers, Jaylen Waddle or Devonta Smith.

The Bengals are on the clock now, with the Dolphins scheduled to be next.