Atlanta Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff has admitted that tying tight end Tony Gonzalez to a new contract is the franchise's priority this off-season.

The Falcons are also expected to open negotiations with quarterback Matt Ryan, but the priority has become Gonzalez, according to ESPN, with the player reportedly reconsidering his retirement.

"Simply stated, the sooner we know, the better, and yet there are no deadlines on this for Tony," Dimitroff told ESPN.

"Tony needs to come to his decision and be at peace with it."

The 36-year-old made his debut NFL season in 1997 and played for the Kansas City Chiefs before the Falcons.