The Atlanta Falcons are likely going to say goodbye to vertical threat after the 2012 season, and the NFL will be saying goodbye to one of the greatest tight ends of all time. Tony Gonzalez is reportedly leaning toward retirement -- and leaning heavily so.
Per the Atlanta Journal Constitution:
Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez, who's set to enter his 16th season, said he's 95 percent sure that this will be his last season after practice Thursday.
"I would say that I'm 95 percent sure, just in case" Gonzalez said. "I talked to my family this offseason. I've had a great run. I feel pretty good about where I'm at as a player. I just want to make sure that I end at the top.
"I don't want to be one of those players towards the end - nothing against those guys who've done it like that in the past - but I want to make sure that I'm at the top of my game when I do go out."
Gonzalez' stats show that he still has plenty left in the tank, as he hauled in 80 receptions for 875 yards and seven touchdowns in 2011. Gonzalez just needs five touchdown receptions to hit 100 for his career.
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