The Atlanta Falcons would love to get back Tony Gonzalez for another season. The tight end appeared to once again take another dip into the fountain of youth and put up another season of successful stats. After the Atlanta Falcons finished 2013 in disappointing fashion, Gonzalez said he was officially retiring. Despite hinting at another late-season return, general manager Thomas Dimitroff believes Gonzalez really is finish.
While speaking with ESPN the Magazine, Gonzalez hinted that a return in 2014 was not entirely out of the question. The tight end said if the Falcons were 9-2i n the month of November and playing well, he would come back for the final two months of the season.
"Can I got back to the last couple of years when I used to say I'm 97-percent sure?" Gonzalez said. "I'd probably take them up on that offer, especially if they're 10-0."
He did not say no. Last season, Gonzalez claimed he was finished. Many believed him when he said the 2013 NFC Championship Game was his last. However, the Falcons were able to convince the tight end to play another year and signed him to a two-year contract. So technically, if he does not file his paperwork with the league, Gonzalez could come back. However, Dimitroff is not putting too much stock into the latest comments by Gonzalez.
Todd McClure of ESPN.com reports Dimitroff is positive that Gonzalez is not returning in 2014 no matter what the Falcons' record is.
"I believe Tony Gonzalez has retired and he'll have a fantastic career in the media business," Dimitroff said, via ESPN.com.
Dimitroff gave the professional answer in regards to Gonzalez which is what he should do. The general manager is putting his faith in the current roster of the Falcons instead of hoping the future Hall of Fame player pulls a Brett Favre and continues to come back. While Ryan would certainly love to have a receiving corps that includes a healthy Julio Jones, healthy Roddy White and Gonzalez, everyone is looking to move on.
With Gonzalez out, the spotlight falls on Levine Toilolo. Last season as a rookie, Toilolo put up 55 receiving yards, only seeing the field for 11 catches, but he did produce two touchdowns, proving he can be a real redzone threat when given the opportunity. Head Mike Smith has spoken highly of the young tight end and his ability to fill in for Gonzalez.
So for now, Gonzalez will enjoy retirement. Does he come back if the Falcons turn their 2014 season around?
