Tony Gonzalez Says 2012 Is His Final Season

Despite being traded away two years ago, former Kansas City Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez is still an extremely popular figure in KC.

Gonzalez will open the season in familiar Arrowhead Stadium when the Chiefs host the Falcons. According to Gonzo, it may well be his last appearance in front of the Sea of Red.

He plans to retire after the season.

“I would say that I’m 95 percent sure, just in case,” Gonzalez said from Falcons camp. “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.”

I think Gonzo is making the right call here. He is 36 and while his skills are still very good, he is bound for a drop off soon.

It will be interesting to see how the crowd reacts when Tony returns this September. I wouldn’t be surprised if they cheer every time he catches the ball.

I have been rooting for the Falcons once the Chiefs have been eliminated the last couple of years, solely because of Gonzalez. I will do the same this season…but I’d rather see the Chiefs BEAT Gonzo in the Super Bowl. 😉