Kansas City Chiefs trade Tony Gonzalez to Falcons

23 April 2009 @ 05:59 pm EDT

The Atlanta Falcons confirmed to USA TODAY's Jim Corbett that they have acquired Tony Gonzalez from the Kansas City Chiefs for the second round in 2010.


Tony Gonzalez
While setting a record 25 100-yard games, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Tony Gonzalez makes a gain against Buffalo Bills corner back Reggie Corner during the second half of Buffalo's win in their NFL football game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri November 23, 2008.
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“On behalf of my family and the Chiefs, I want to thank Tony for his time in Kansas City,” Chiefs chairman Clark Hunt said.

“Over the last 12 seasons, Tony has been one of the finest players in Chiefs history, and he will always be remembered as a member of the Chiefs. His play on the field speaks for itself – he holds almost every major NFL record for tight ends, and he is arguably the best to ever play his position. We wish him the best in Atlanta.”

Gonzalez, a 10-time Pro Bowler, has played in Kansas City after beginning in 1997. He caught 96 passes for 1,058 yards and 10 touchdowns last season.

Gonzalez will become a target for second-year quarterback Matt Ryan.

“With Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Roddy White and now myself, we have the chance to be in the top 5 in the league in offense every year," Gonzalez told Fox. "How could I not be excited to join that team?”

Gonzalez told Fox he left Kansas City on positive terms. "There was no bitterness at all from either side," he said

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