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Debate

Would Kyle Pitts be the same player without the unwavering support of his parents?

Hell, naw. This is what we expected for you, son. This is what I told people that you could and would do. Now go do it.” Said Kyle Pitts’ father when he searched for his new home in Atlanta after being drafted in 2021.

Pitts was born on October 6, 2000, to Kelly and Theresa Pitts. The athlete was born and brought up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. The couple also have a younger daughter, Tenae Pitts. Although much is not known about their mother, Theresa, she is considered a pillar of support for her son. During his childhood, she stood by him, and even now, as the tight end has become a popular Atlanta Falcons player, Theresa remains one of his biggest fans.

Before his NFL debut, an incident happened which proved how important Pitts’ mother is to him. Before his first game, Kyle and Theresa stayed in an Airbnb unit together. Why? Imagine how anxious any person would be playing his first game in front of millions – that was the case with him. Kyle later stated that before he played his first game, he wanted to stay with his momma to spend time with her during those nerve-wracking moments. They also took a photo together as a memory of the day. But that’s not all! Besides being a mama’s boy, Kyle is also very close to his father, Kelly. And their stories are indeed quite remarkable!

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Kelly Pitts, Kyle’s father, recognized his son’s potential as a tight end from a very young age. This was because he noted Kyle’s athletic mix of height, speed, and coordination, and believed in his future. And then what? He has always been a constant supporter, encouraging Kyle to focus on being a tight end rather than a quarterback because of his athletic traits. He also guided him throughout his football journey and urged him to attend tight-end and wide-receiver meetings to further hone his skills.

The duo is often seen together. For instance, on June 12, 2022, a year after Pitts’ NFL debut, at Chateau Elan resort, Kyle introduced his father to golf. Although Kyle was new to the sport, his natural athleticism shone through as he stood on the third-hole fairway, excited about his drive but apprehensive about the next shot. His father, Kelly, was playing his first real round of golf, surrounded by a media crew documenting their every move. To lighten the moment, Kyle offered his dad advice: “Swing slow and sweep the ground.” Kelly, who was initially tense and swinging too hard, finally hit the ball well after following Kyle’s tips. That’s where a father-and-son bond reflected perfectly! Meanwhile, Kyle’s sister, Tenae, arrived in a golf cart and FaceTimed their mom to show her the two men enjoying their game together.

Kyle’s parents’ upbringing has played a crucial role in keeping him humble and grounded despite his success. Their support and Kyle’s dedication led him to the University of Florida, and ultimately, to being the No. 4 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft as a tight end – a position his father believed was perfect for him.

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Kyle Pitts’ family story of the 2021 draft!

What’s your perspective on:

Would Kyle Pitts be the same player without the unwavering support of his parents?

Have an interesting take?

Picture this…..American Airlines Flight 5181 departed Philadelphia International Airport’s Terminal on 28th April 2021, carrying Kelly Pitts, his wife Theresa, and their daughter Tenae. They were heading to the Midwest to support their son, Kyle Pitts, who was going to begin his professional football career at the NFL draft. After landing at Cleveland Hopkins International, the Pitts family went through various administrative tasks before checking into their hotel and grabbing a bite to eat. Kelly, who was solely focused on the draft, spent most of the next 30 hours resting. Then on Thursday night, in First Energy Stadium’s makeshift green room, Kyle Pitts noticed his phone buzz shortly after the San Francisco 49ers selected Trey Lance.

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He said, “I’ve been waiting for that call my whole life.” Yes, you got it right! That was the day when Kyle and his parents’ dreams came true. He got selected by the Falcons! Upon hearing this news, a sense of joy erupted in the Pitts family. However, his father, Kelly, remained calm and detached from the emotional moment. He emphasized readiness and hard work. He said, “When it is over, you tell him how proud you are and blah, blah blah. Now let’s get ready. Let’s go to work.”

And since then, Kyle has been playing on the gridiron, making his parents even prouder every day.