Falcons TE Kyle Pitts poised to play in opener vs. Steelers

Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts was a full participant in practice for the second straight day on Friday and is expected to play in Sunday's season opener against the visiting Pittsburgh Steelers.

Pitts was limited in practice on Wednesday as he dealt with a hamstring injury.

Inside linebacker Nate Landman also was a full participant in practice on Friday after being limited the previous two days due to a quad injury.

Also on Friday, offensive tackle Jake Matthews and defensive tackle Ta'Quon Graham were limited while being listed for rest purposes. Defensive tackles David Onyemata and Grady Jarrett did not practice on Friday for the same reason.

The Falcons officially ruled out defensive back Antonio Hamilton due to a groin injury. He was a limited participant on Thursday before failing to practice on Friday.

Pitts was named to the Pro Bowl in his rookie season, when he caught 68 passes for 1,026 yards and one touchdown, but his production had tailed off in the two seasons since, in part due to MCL and PCL injuries suffered midway through his sophomore campaign.

Pitts, 23, has totaled 149 receptions for 2,049 yards and six touchdowns over 44 career games (40 starts) while catching passes from Marcus Mariota, Desmond Ridder and Taylor Heinicke in the past two seasons.

Landman, 25, recorded a career-high 110 tackles to go with three forced fumbles and two sacks in 16 games (14 starts) last season.

--Field Level Media