"Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez is not used to disappointment, especially when it comes to personal goals.

So, it was a little tough to take Sunday when the clock ran out on Atlanta's 20-10 victory against the Buccaneers and Gonzalez's career total for receptions was stuck on 999.

One more hot read, one more quick-hitter across the middle - one fewer ineligible downfield penalty - and Gonzalez could put his 13th NFL season to bed the proud owner of a nice, round 1,000 career catches.

"It's disappointing to come so close to it," Gonzalez said, "because tomorrow is never promised."

Gonzalez came in needing four. He caught three. Officially, that is.

He actually had a fourth catch nullified when right tackle Tyson Clabo was caught illegally downfield on Atlanta's first play from scrimmage.

Gonzalez was targeted seven times, so it wasn't as if quarterback Matt Ryan froze him out.

"I would have loved to have seen him get it today," Ryan said. "I'm hoping that he gets it that first game next year. We can put that to rest. He deserves it. He's a great player. He's been a huge part of our team this year."

On one ball thrown Gonzalez's way, Bucs safety Sabby Piscitelli stepped in front of a Ryan pass for an interception. Another time, Piscitelli was called for pass interference in the end zone as Gonzalez stretched for a potential touchdown.

The final attempt to get Gonzalez to 1,000 came on the Falcons' last play from scrimmage. Ryan rolled right on third-and-7, but was pressured by Bucs defensive end Tim Crowder and threw the ball at Gonzalez's feet.

For the record, the future Hall of Famer was open.

Also for the record, Gonzalez did not come out and say for sure he expected to play beyond this season.

"Hopefully, next year, if I'm back here, I'm sure that we'll get it," Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez finished his first season in Atlanta with 83 catches for 867 yards and six touchdowns. His 999 receptions are the most in NFL history by a tight end and seventh-most by all receivers."