Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez said Sunday’s loss to the 49ers in the NFC Championship Game was “probably” his last NFL game, echoing his thoughts throughout the season that he was 95 percent sure he would retire after this season.
“It’s probably the last time I’m going to wear that uniform,” Gonzalez said after the Falcons’ 28-24 loss. “I didn’t want to take it off, to tell you the truth. All good things come to an end, and like I said all season long, this is probably my last one. What an unbelievable ride.”
Gonzalez had eight catches for 72 yards, including a 10-yard touchdown reception with 25 seconds remaining in the first half. The Falcons didn’t score again.
The 36-year-old tight end was voted to his third straight Pro Bowl in four seasons with the Falcons, but said Sunday he’s unlikely to play in the game. His 2012 selection was the 13th time he’s been voted to the league’s all-star game.
Gonzalez Set TE Standard
Tony Gonzalez has helped set a new standard for tight ends in his 16-year career. He ranks as the best tight end in a number of different statistical categories.
He said he will discuss his plans with his family before making his final decision on retirement.
“I’m not going to cry about it,” Gonzalez said after the conclusion of his 16th season. “I walk away with the satisfaction I left everything, absolutely everything, every time I was on the field.
“I wish it would have culminated with the Super Bowl, but it didn’t.”
Drafted 13th overall by the Chiefs in 1997, Gonzalez is second on the career receptions list with 1,242 and is the most decorated tight end in NFL history, ranking first at the position and sixth overall with 103 touchdown catches. At 14,268 yards, he’s seventh on the career receiving list.
