All good things must have an end. Frank Gore, who last played in the NFL as a 37-year-old in 2020, is finally hanging his legs forever. Gore will reportedly sign a one-day contract and retire as a member of the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday, according to Mercury News.
Gore revealed in April that he plans to sign a one-day contract with the 49ers and retire during the 2022 NFL off-season.
Gore is moving away from football as the 3rd leading player of all time in NFL history. Only Emmit Smith and Walter Peyton sit above Gore on the list for all time.
After a promising new year with the 49ers in 2005, Gore continued to publish 12 fantastic seasons in the NFL, most of which came with the 49ers. Gore rushed at least 1,000 yards nine times during that period and made the Pro Bowl five times. He left the NFL as the 49ers’ leading striker of all time. Gore scored 11,073 running yards in his 10 franchise seasons.
Gore remained in the league for three more seasons after his peak years and managed a solid production with the Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins and the New York Jets, although he was a part-time player at the end of his career.
Gore did not sign with an NFL team in 2021. He did not attract interest in the off-season 2022. As Gore’s future in the NFL is in doubt, he began training in another sport. Gore made his boxing debut in May when he won by knockout over Yaya Olorunsola.
Frank Gore hopes to call the NFL Hall of Fame
Gore’s position on the all-time rush list ensures his inclusion in the Professional Football Hall of Fame. Despite his prominent common yard, there is some debate about Gore’s ability to reach the hall.
Gore’s argument is based on his longevity instead of his peak. While Gore had an excellent pick, he was rarely the best back in the NFL. He has never led the league in yards or touchdowns in a single season. And he never created an All-Pro team. Peyton and Smith have combined for nine All-Pro appearances, won MVP awards and topped the NFL in fast yards and touchdowns for at least one season of their careers.
The story continues
Gore was consistently above average for a long time and remained at least an average player as he got older. His season-to-season stats don’t jump off the page like other Hall of Fame backs, but there’s something to be said for Gore’s efficiency and longevity in a position that requires a huge penalty.
After all, Gore’s position on the rush list for all time may be the only thing that matters to Hall of Fame voters. He may miss the awards of other legendary runners, but Gore’s position on the all-time rush list speaks volumes for his tremendous ability and endurance in the NFL.
An average – or above average – player would not be ranked 3rd on the all-time rush list. Gore was a special talent.
Frank Gore scored 49ers. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images)
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