OTAs: Tony Gonzalez plans a trip to Super Bowl
Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan and tight end Tony Gonzalez get on the same page. Jason Getz/jgetz@ajc.com
FLOWERY BRANCH – Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez has heard owner Arthur Blank’s message, loud and clear.
Loading ...Gonzalez knows that Blank was not talking about wedding rings, either.
“On paper right now, this is probably the best team that I’ve ever been on,” Gonzalez said after Wednesday’s OTA session. “It’s exciting. It’s good to know that we can go out there and accomplish some big things this year.
Running backs Jason Snelling, Dmitri Nance (30), Turner and Jerious Norwood line up to participate in a drill. Jason Getz/jgetz@ajc.com
When I say that, I’m thinking Super Bowl.”
Gonzalez isn’t shy about talking about the team’s high aspirations.
“Why would I think any other way?” Gonzalez said. “Why would I, especially at this point in my career and with the talent that we have on this team. We can go a far ways if we want to, if we work the right way.”
Gonzalez hasn’t played on a team that’s won a playoff game, but he was on the 2003 Kansas City team that posted at 13-3 regular season record and had the AFC’s No. 2 seed. They were upset by the Indianapolis Colts 38-31 in the divisional round of the playoffs.
Gonzalez believes the Falcons are on par with those Chiefs who featured record-breaking seasons by running back Priest Holmes, quarterback Trent Green and returner Dante Hall.
“I know that offensively, we are comparable to that 2003 team out there in Kansas City when we had a lot of Pro Bowlers on that side of the ball,” Gonzalez said. “We have that same talent on the offensive side of the ball.”
Falcons coach Mike Smith is expected a big bounce-back year from John Abraham. But should he be at OTAs? (Curtis Compton/compton@ajc.com)
The Chiefs’ leaky defense failed them against the Colts. Gonzalez believes the Falcons defense has the potential to be much stronger unit.
“On defense with the pick up of Dunta (Robinson) coming in, (John) Abraham, (Curtis) Lofton and we have a lot of guys going into their third year,” Gonzalez said. “That third year is when it really clicks for you. There is really no excuse at that point.”
There has been a lot of talk about players making a big jump in their third year.
“You’ve had a chance to go out there and play,” Gonzalez said. “Now you are out there in that comfort zone. That’s when you start to hit your stride as a player. We have a lot of those types of guys on defense right now.”
Also, quarterback Matt Ryan is entering his third year.
“I think if he keeps playing the way he is right now and keep improving, I’ve always said with Matt, it’s not ‘if’, it’s ‘when’,” Gonzalez said. “It’s just up to him and to have us around him to make sure that our learning curve is accelerated. . . mentally, it’s a no brainer for him. . . I’ve got big plans for Matt this year. But it takes all of us coming together.”
Getting sized for your ring? Gonzalez is attending the OTAs, should defensive end John Abraham be at the “voluntary” workouts?
The Rookie Club is set to visit the Shepherd Center
OTAs: Mike Smith looking for some consistency
OTAs: William Moore takes part in first session
Chauncey Davis helping to fight childhood obesity
At the polls: Fans say no to T.O.
Thomas Dimitroff to play D.J. on DAVE:FM
You can follow the Falcons Beat and Falcons Fan blogs on Twitter at AJCFalcons and you can join the Facebook Fan page at AJC Falcons.
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
135 comments Add your comment
waynester
May 27th, 2010
12:16 pm
I’d be much more dissapointed if he wasn’t confident. Belief is vital to acheiving anything. They’ve got me believing too, for the first time in a long time….
Section 108
May 27th, 2010
12:21 pm
We have the offense – A SB run lies in the hands of our DB’s, pass rush, and kicker. Only the good Lord knows where we could of gone last year if we would of had 1 or 2 out of those 3……
PMC
May 27th, 2010
12:26 pm
It’s June. Abe has stuff that’s going on. This is the time to get that stuff in order. Being at every single OTA is not mandatory and it’s not necessary for Older Vets. He’ll get his share of leadership in.
The fact that they know where he is tells you that JA is dedicated and wouldn’t miss it unless what he is doing is very important.
Sid
May 27th, 2010
12:30 pm
To: Defensive end John Abraham …………..everybody is there…………why aren’t you? f……ing prima donna
Sid
May 27th, 2010
12:38 pm
@PMC
May 27th, 2010
12:26 pm
*************************************************************
PMC = John Abraham
*************************************************************
Yeah, you’re right, I guess he couldn’t have done it any other time except while the team was working @ putting together a run for the Super Bowl………….
truth
May 27th, 2010
12:47 pm
Say what you want Tony G, you’ve earned it.
Sid
May 27th, 2010
12:47 pm
@RobbE33
May 27th, 2010
12:06 pm
*******************************************
Serve me up some more of that fine BS you got there. If they want him to take it easy that is fine, but they would want for him to take it easy there, at the OTA’s. This is a time to build team consensus and trust. You cannot think that there are other Falcons players that are not pissed he is not there.
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
12:48 pm
Oh yeaa Yeah @10:44am……I don’t know what the Falcons chant will be, I really don’t think they need one.
But, the saints chant will be Who Dat? Who Dat? Who Dat Done Kicked Our A$$es(two times in 2010 when the Falcons get through with them)?
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
12:51 pm
The saints are one turf toe away, from being in last place in the NFC South Div.
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
12:54 pm
The saints are one turf away, from being in the bottom slot of the NFC South at the end of 2010.
Football Bat
May 27th, 2010
1:27 pm
Falcons are garbage? They are about as far from rebuilding now as a team can get, and they reloaded both sides of the line in the draft. I think their 9-7 curse breaker was a perfect way to conclude last season, b/c one and done playoff appearance means nothing if not a downer during the offseason. Also finally heard Blank talk about focusing on WINNING THE DIVISION which is exactly where their focus should be. They have momentum and confidence. If they get a few breaks on injuries, YES, absolutely they can beat anyone.
truth
May 27th, 2010
1:30 pm
If I was a aints fan I would be worried about the Madden 2011 curse. Judging from what has happedned to players who graced the cover in the past, Brees is most likely in a padded room w/o furniture as we speak. Also, look back at the ones (the few they are)who were not injuried after being on the cover, none had a year like the one before.
Jt
May 27th, 2010
1:40 pm
I want my team thinking the way TG thinks. There are no excuses-it is a talented team that is in the third year of this “process” and it is realistic to think in higher goals than have previously been attained. It’s not enough to just make the playoffs- farther and farther.
As far as Abraham is concerned, I generally lean towards the idea of ALL players being there, but I believe that John Abraham knows what he needs to do to be at optimum level when the season begins and he will do it. He has been completely professional while a Falcon and his propensity for injury may be a concern but his heart, desire and work ethic to prepare himself to play has never been questioned while a Falcon
marcus
May 27th, 2010
2:28 pm
hte games the falcons lost last year they had a chance to win and that all the games they lost so as far as gonz saying he’s on the best team he’s ever been on i think it’s true and the team we have now is the best we ever had so saints fans on our site talking that need to step off we’ll see ya’ll on the field whats up
Crabkilla
May 27th, 2010
2:34 pm
Look into my eyes………..SURPRISE!!!! I’m a Falcon!!!
Crabkilla
May 27th, 2010
2:43 pm
DOL,
I love these birds. I love where we are going. I love Matt Ryan, but I wish he would start pump faking these defenses. All the greats do it. Where are the pump fakes? Am I the only one not seeing them? Does he do it in practice?
Fat Ryan
May 27th, 2010
3:10 pm
“On paper right now, this is probably the best team that I’ve ever been on”
UUUUGGGHHHHHHH??????? Not that I disagree with you Tony but….haven’t you only played for like …2 teams in your NFL career????
If Stayin out
May 27th, 2010
3:10 pm
of OTA’s keeps his old brittle arse on the field come the regular season I’m all for it.
Crabkilla
May 27th, 2010
3:23 pm
Fat Ryan, do you have a fat steak between your ears? He has been with 2 organizations. The organization’s team tends to change year to year based on trades, free agency, the draft, quality of play, etc. How dare you question Mr. Gonzalez’ experience in the National Football League.
Fat Ryan
May 27th, 2010
3:29 pm
Crabkilla, re-read my post…I said 2 teams. I’m not doubting TG, I just thought the headline was amusing…and yes, I do have a fat steak between my ears.
truth
May 27th, 2010
3:37 pm
I wish I had a steak…… ;(
truth
May 27th, 2010
3:37 pm
I wish I had a steak…… ;(
SirReal
May 27th, 2010
3:48 pm
Guys,
I think we’re at least poised to make a run but it will depend on these factors i believe: 1) Our QB. It all starts here. He has to be mentally tough and learn how to take a hit w/o getting up and looking like a deer in the headlights for the rest of the game. He’s very solid and in this 3rd year, its time for him to make a serious stride. Period.
2) The O-line has to keep him on his feet so we can make some downfield throws. I’m still not sold on Sam “T-Rex arms” Baker. The rest of the line is solid.
3) The DEFENSE as a whole, especially the pass rush. I think our secondary will be a bit better than even I expect. We’re more solid w/o Houston back there being a piece of wood. (got burned too often.lol)
4) The players giving a full 48. I saw a few games where we didnt finish and let teams back into the game. (e.g. Last year vs. redskins)
5) Finally but very important, A CONSISTENT KICKER THAT DOESNT BLOW 2-3 GAMES FOR US!
With these factors, we have just as good a chance as anyone. This is an upper echolon team if we play like it. Thats my humble opinion.
truth
May 27th, 2010
4:09 pm
…..and baked tator.
BULLSEYE
May 27th, 2010
4:16 pm
@-SirReal.
You forgot to mention that we to take it one game at a time and score more points than the other team.
btw-Sam Baker would rip your little arms out of their sockets.
truth
May 27th, 2010
4:22 pm
….chives. mmmmmmmmm
Optimistic
May 27th, 2010
4:50 pm
I love Gonzalez’s optimism! He had the same high aspirations last year, but what happened was the injuries kept piling up and Matt Ryan kept throwing interceptions. I have high hopes for this new and rebuilt Falcons team, with Turner back, along with a strong corps of wide receivers (hopefully). Then we have defense; Peria Jerry will be back and we also have Dunta Robinson.
I completely understand his optimism and love it.
I was upset that last year we didn’t make it to the playoffs, Tony saw the Falcons as a Super Bowl team… but that was when EVERYONE was healthy.
I am going to knock on wood, hope that everyone (especially our major weapons) will remain healthy into the bulk of the next season. Go Falcons 2010!!!
GT3O
May 27th, 2010
4:53 pm
Dare I say it D-Led?
The Jackets and Falcons are gonna have Atlanta “ALL DA WAY TURNT UP!!!!!”
falcon fan
May 27th, 2010
5:02 pm
….and a ice cold beer. Yummmm.
hiramsaint
May 27th, 2010
5:03 pm
hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahhahahahahahahaha & lmao
Crabkilla
May 27th, 2010
5:08 pm
how bout some crabs? Surf n turf
falcon4ever
May 27th, 2010
5:09 pm
we should get a wildcard spot behind the saints but at least we’ll get there
Paddy O
May 27th, 2010
5:15 pm
having a wily QB, who pump fakes and can dodge rushers. ala Brett Farve; plus having a defensive that runs undetected, stunning stunts that smash the opposing QB, is how you become a force. I remember Jacksonville as having a pretty good defense under Mike Smith, anybody else remember differently?
Paddy O
May 27th, 2010
5:17 pm
we should at least split with the Saints. Remember the Jets game? It indicated we had some serious tenacity. Remember, if Elam makes 2 easy kicks, we would have been 11-5.
falcon4ever
May 27th, 2010
5:19 pm
paddy o — sounds like you’re describing my team. imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. thanks!
rekingball
May 27th, 2010
5:26 pm
The Falcons will defeat the saints in both games they play this year.
truth
May 27th, 2010
5:28 pm
I love crabs. Gots some from a lady in Miami in ‘96.
truth
May 27th, 2010
5:29 pm
wait….that don’t come out right. She was selling them on a pier in Miami and we took then back to the time share and had a surf n turf cookout. They where awsome.
Loyal Falcon
May 27th, 2010
5:56 pm
No more Dirty Birds….We are about to be known as the Ferocious Falcons!!!!! It’s going to be a really good year.
hiramsaint
May 27th, 2010
5:56 pm
rekingball–optimism about a good season is one thing but don’t set yourself up to be dashed against the rocks. the falcons fans may talk like you do but deep down they know whats gonna happen and they should know and you know what ? it’s o.k. really it is . two losses to the saints won’t ruin your chances for another WINNING season
hiramsaint
May 27th, 2010
6:00 pm
loyal falcon, i appreciate your enthusiasm but thats really gay and i think most will agree with me on that
Paddy O
May 27th, 2010
6:22 pm
The pump fake is something that is distinctly omitted from Ryan – He needs to watch film of Farve. Also, we need to emulate the great teams of the Eagles, Steelers & Ravens – the opposing team must be worried about pressure up the middle, of the side of the line, a linebacker up the middle, a quick corner blitz, even a super fast safety. We also have a problem with read/progressions – if the out guy is open, pop him. If not, check the slot/Wes Welker guy, the tide end and finally a free running back – BUT, this type of attack at all points must be available on every play. We have to be able to run these plays from similar sets, or we are just telegraphing our intent on the upcoming play. I thought we did a poor job of disguising our play intent.
Paddy O
May 27th, 2010
6:23 pm
I would also like to see us go back to the red unis & red helmets, but that is just personal preference.
hiramsaint
May 27th, 2010
6:47 pm
paddy o–just reading your few post i can tell that you know more about football tactics than smitty will ever know. i look forward to more from you
Dawg Man
May 27th, 2010
6:49 pm
Tony G is a great player and a very intelligent guy, so if he says this team is ready to rock, I’m quite ready to believe him.
GO FALCONS!!!!
Loyal Falcon
May 27th, 2010
6:50 pm
@hiramsaint
Please keep your sexual orientation to yourself. This is a falcons blog, see your way out. Take your garbage somewhere else. Everyone knows the Aints got lucky last year.
SirReal
May 27th, 2010
7:08 pm
@Bulleye Well sir I really wasnt talking to you so you can keep moving along. Thanks for taking time out to speak to me though.
Loyal Falcon
May 27th, 2010
7:11 pm
@Paddy O
I agree 100%
falcon4ever
May 27th, 2010
7:22 pm
loyal falcon, you should leave hiransaint alone because most of the time he knows what he is talking about and the fact that they won the superbowl was not luck at all but skill. we may not like the saints but they were obviously the ultimate team in the nfl and our team should try to follow their example
hiramsaint
May 27th, 2010
7:42 pm
loyal falcon— i was going to retort but 1 of your own has done it for me… ladyreal –what cute smiley face, new to the pc are you ?