Before Frank Gore heads to the Hall of Fame, he’ll make at least one more stop. The free-agent running back is signing with the Jets, the team recently announced.
The agreement is for a one-year deal according to Gore’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus.
Alright, yes, Gore is turning 37 soon. When he made his NFL debut, September 11, 2005, quarterback Sam Darnold was eight years old.
But the Jets are not bringing in Gore to be more than they need.
And what is it, exactly, this team needs? I’m glad you asked.
Professionalism -> They should put a picture of Gore next to the definition of the word. Hey, football fans, can you recall the last time anyone had something negative to say about him? I didn’t think so. Gore can be a mentor on and off the field for the younger players. Specifically, 2020 fourth-round draft pick, running back La’Mical Perine.
Depth -> Head coach Adam Gase wants to lighten the load for Le’Veon Bell, at least that’s what he’s saying. When he comes to durability and reliability, Gore is as good as it comes. He has missed only two regular season games in the past nine years. Gore will help with the workload and be a reliable No. 2 option.
Familiarity –> Gase was Gore’s head coach with the Dolphins in 2018. They also worked together in 2008, with the 49ers, when Gase was an assistant there. What do most do when taking on a new leadership role? They tend to bring in people they’re comfortable around. They surround themselves with people they’ve had success with. People who know the system already. Gore is the ideal fit for what Gase is looking for.
The Jets are adding a veteran running back who’ll add leadership to the locker room. But, if called on, Gore can also be an extra voice in the film room for Gase and his coaching staff.
Joining the Jets means Gore will be playing for his third AFC East team after playing in Buffalo last year.
The resume speaks for itself.
16 years in the league, currently third on the NFL all-time rushing list with 15, 347 yards. He has an NFL record 15 consecutive seasons with at least 500 rushing yards.
The Jets will be counting on Gore to bring his leadership and production to the table for a young team looking to take the next step forward. His veteran presence in the locker room and familiarity with Gase can only help this team.
