The annual Madden ratings have been released, and as usual, there are some disgruntled fans up in arms over their favorite player’s rating. This year, the Falcons’ highest-rated player is Kyle Pitts, who has an 87 overall rating and is sixth among TEs.
Top 15 TEs in Madden NFL 23:
Travis Kelce: 98
George Kittle: 97
Mark Andrews: 93
Darren Waller: 91
TJ Hockenson: 89
Kyle Pitts: 87
Mike Gesicki: 86
Dallas Goedert: 85
Hunter Henry: 84
Zach Ertz: 84
Dawson Knox: 83
Tyler Higbee: 83
Dalton Schultz: 82
Noah Fant: 82
Evan Engram: 81— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) July 18, 2022
Hockenson is probably the only player rated higher than Pitts where Falcons fans have an argument. Kelce, Kittle, Andrews, and Waller are the established best players at their position and have been for several seasons. Hockenson and Pitts are the new kids on the block, though the latter should be rated higher based on production.
Hockenson only played in 12 games last year, but his stats over a full season still don’t compare to those of Pitts. The Lions’ tight end recorded 61 receptions for 583 yards and four touchdowns, which equates to 85 receptions, 816 yards, and five touchdowns over a full season. In comparison, Pitts hauled in 68 receptions for 1,026 yards and one touchdown. The former No. 4 overall pick is a much more dynamic receiver, while Hockenson is the better blocker. No offensive coordinator would take Hockenson over Pitts, which should be reflected in their Madden ratings.
Still, Pitts is only entering his second season in the league. By the time he fully grasps the NFL, he’ll be the best player at his position, rivaling some of the greatest tight ends ever to strap it up. When Madden 24 comes out, Pitts will be above 90 overall and in the top five at his position. But for now, this is a fair place for him to start the season.
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Photographer: Shaun Brooks/Actionplus/Icon Sportswire
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