Tight end will not be a pressing need in the draft.

In an interview posted by the team’s official website, Tony Gonzalez has confirmed that he will return to the Atlanta Falcons next season.

“I’ll be around for sure next season,” the Hall of Fame lock said in the podcast.

After a successful first season with the Falcons, Tony Gonzalez has decided to return for another.

The former No. 13 overall pick of the Chiefs will enter next season one reception shy of becoming the first tight end in NFL history to grab 1,000 receptions. Gonzalez consulted with his family before making the decision to return.

“You don’t ever want to make a decision right after the season is over,” he said. “Now that I’ve had a chance to get away from the game a little bit and talk to my family, I’m definitely going to be around for another year.”

The 10-time Pro Bowler was traded to the Falcons prior to the 2009 season. He quickly became one of Matt Ryan’s favorite receivers, making 83 receptions for 867 yards and six touchdowns, including a six-yard grab in the final seconds against the New York Jets that helped the Falcons post back-to-back winning seasons for the first time in franchise history.

With Gonzalez filling Atlanta’s need at tight end, the Dirty Birds will likely turn their attention to defense in the upcoming draft.

-- PHIL FOLEY