INDIANAPOLIS — If defensive end Dwight Freeney wants to play in Atlanta in 2017, he needs to decide sooner than later.

Falcons head coach Dan Quinn says he would welcome Freeney’s return for a 16th NFL season. However, Quinn is insistent that Freeney participate in the team’s offseason program rather than sign during training camp like he did for the 2016 campaign.

"The standard is the standard," Quinn told co-host Rick Neuheisel and me on SiriusXM NFL Radio. “If he decides he wants to do it, he’s got to be all in to do it. I don’t want to make special circumstances for anyone in any way."

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Although the bulk of NFL offseason workout programs are voluntary in nature, there is an unwritten expectation among franchises that players will participate in the sessions.

Quinn’s stance differs with that of his predecessor. Mike Smith was Falcons head coach in 2013 when Tony Gonzalez missed the bulk of Atlanta's offseason program, which was one of the tight end’s conditions for returning.

Quinn said he hasn’t spoken with Freeney about his intentions for this season. Quoting a source, USA Today reported earlier this week that Freeney is planning to continue his playing career.

Freeney, a seven-time Pro Bowl selection who ranks 18th on the NFL’s all-time sack list with 122.5, finished last season with 10 tackles and three sacks as a rotational player. His impact also could be felt in other areas like team leadership and the mentoring of second-year outside linebacker Vic Beasley, who registered a league-high 15.5 sacks after notching just four as a rookie.

WATCH: All of Beasley's sacks in 2016

"I am pleased with where Vic is headed," said Quinn, who also complemented Freeney for his work with Beasley. "His quickness, the ability to finish, it totally showed up."

The Falcons now must wait to learn whether Freeney will do the same in April.

Alex Marvez can be heard from 8 a.m. ET to 11 a.m. ET Friday on SiriusXM NFL Radio.