The Atlanta Falcons have been patient with their star tight end Tony Gonzalez. They have let him deter on retirement, deciding between walking away from the game or come back for one more shot at the title. After first saying he was almost positive retirement was the answer, it looks likely that Gonzalez will return for one more season. While he has not publicly declared a return for a 17th season, he has given his agent the green light to discuss a deal with the Atlanta Falcons.
The Falcons were hoping to get a decision from Gonzalez before the start of free agency in order to plan future moves for the team. After Atlanta's loss in the NFC Championship, Gonzalez had said he was "pretty sure" he was going to retire. Then general manager Thomas Dimitroff believed Gonzalez was more "50/50" on whether or not to return. The Falcons had been firm in saying they would not take Gonzalez's name off the roster until he gave a definite answer.
The return of Gonzalez plays a large role in what the Falcons do with the rest of their offseason. If he decided not to return, the Falcons would likely draft a tight end in the upcoming NFL draft. Now with Gonzalez set to return, they can focus on re-stocking a secondary that lost a few key pieces. The Falcons are in need of a pass-rusher that they will look for during free agency. They also need to lock down a left tackle position.
Atlanta will still consider drafting a tight end in a later round of the draft that could spend a year learning under the future Hall of Fame tight end. Gonzalez is a 13-time Pro Bowler. He currently holds the NFL records for touchdown receptions (107) and total reception yards (14,268) by a tight end. Last season, Gonzalez seemed to find the fountain of youth. He recorded 93 receptions for 930 yards and eight touchdowns. He played a large part in the Falcons playoff run last season, with 14 postseason catches and two touchdowns. With Gonzalez and receivers Roddy White and Julio Jones, the Falcons will be returning with one of the deadliest receiving corps in the league.
Gonzalez will reportedly be seeking a contract somewhere around $7 million for the 2013 season along with a reduced training camp schedule. He earned $4.9 million last year. All signs point to the Falcons giving Gonzalez whatever contract he asks for.