All good things must come to an end. Frank Gore, who last played in the NFL at the age of 37 in 2020, is finally hanging on to the spots forever. Gore reportedly signed a one-day contract and will retire as a member of the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday, according to Mercury News.
Gore revealed in April that he planned to sign a one-day deal with the 49ers and retire during the low season of the 2022 NFL.
Gore is moving away from football as the third-leading player of all time in NFL history. Only Emmitt Smith and Walter Payton sit above Gore on the all-time list.
After a promising debut year with the 49ers in 2005, Gore had a fantastic 12 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 leaves the NFL as the all-time leading running back of the 49ers. Gore earned 11,073 yards per street in his 10 seasons with the franchise.
Gore remained in the league for three more seasons after his senior years, and managed a solid production with the Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins and New York Jets despite being a part-time player at the end of his career.
Gore didn’t sign with an NFL team in 2021. He also didn’t attract interest during the low season of 2022. With Gore’s future in the NFL in doubt, he began coaching in another sport. Gore made his boxing debut in May, when he got a knockout victory over Yaya Olorunsola.
Frank Gore awaits the NFL Hall of Fame call
Gore’s position on the all-time rush list almost guarantees his induction into the Professional Football Hall of Fame. Despite his spectacular total meters, there is some debate about Gore coming into the room.
Gore’s argument is based on his longevity rather than his peak. While Gore had an excellent high, he was rarely the best runner in the NFL. He never led the league in yards or touchdowns in a single season. And he never made an All-Pro team. Payton and Smith combined for nine All-Pro appearances, won MVPs and led the NFL in yards and touchdowns for at least one season of their career.
The story goes on
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 runners, but there’s something to be said about Gore’s effectiveness and longevity in a position that carries immense punishment.
Ultimately, Gore’s position on the all-time list could be the only thing that matters to Hall of Fame voters. He may be missing out on awards from other legendary runners, but Gore’s position on the all-time rush list speaks to his immense ability and endurance in the NFL.
An average player, or above average, would not be third on the all-time rush list. Gore was a special talent.
Frank Gore excelled with the 49ers. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images)