Cesar Tordesillas

Persuading tight end Tony Gonzalez to return has become a higher priority for the Atlanta Falcons at the moment.

He intends to retire but is also scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent.

Gonzalez had said that if he were to return he would be interested in playing only for the Falcons.

"Simply stated, the sooner we know, the better, and yet there are no deadlines on this for Tony," GM Tom Dimitroff said. "Tony needs to come to his decision and be at peace with his decision," says Dimitroff.

The Falcons have the talent to go deep into the postseason, and there has been no evidence that Gonzalez is on the decline.

A 13-time Pro Bowler, Gonzalez holds NFL records for touchdown receptions (107) and reception yards (14,268) by a tight end. He had 93 catches for 930 yards and 8 touchdowns last season.

He turns 38 on Feb. 27th.

Atlanta Falcons Prioritize Tony Gonzalez Signing - NFL 2013