Frank Gore is held in high regard by his peers, coaches and teammates. When Gore runs with the football, do you notice what happens after the play stops? Almost every time, Gore is helped back up by his teammates or opponents. It’s the ultimate show of respect for one of the greatest running backs to ever play the game.
Gore is the No. 3 rusher all-time in NFL history, trailing only Emmitt Smith and Walter Payton. He’s earned his spot and knows what it takes to get there.
Now, at 37 years old, Gore can see the light at the end of the road. He hasn’t let the frustration from playing on a struggling Jets team change him or his goals.
The Jets, at 0-8, are looking towards their future. This includes young players like La’Mical Perine, Denzel Mims, and Mekhi Becton. Gore has taken on a mentor’s role for the team’s young core, specifically Perine.
“That’s why I’m playing the game still,” Gore told the Inside the Jets podcast. “My goal is to show the young guys what it takes to be successful in the NFL. If they can see me working hard every day, they have no choice than to follow. I’m going to keep working and keep fighting.”
The Jets have been a mess on the field this season, but the seeds are being planted for a promising future. Perine projects to have an increased workload for the remainder of the season.
“I’m proud of him,” Gore said of Perine. “He is taking steps in the right direction. The way he is as a young man, he wants to get better. He listens to anything I tell him, and you see that he’s growing as a player. I’m happy for all our young guys.”
One thing for sure with Gore, if he’s the featured running back or the backup, he’s going to play the game how it’s should be played. He’s going to show up on time to work every day and give it his all.
The Jets are right to get Perine more playing time. They can do that while knowing Gore will be ready when his number is called.
Meanwhile, for at least the next eight weeks, Perine has a future Hall of Fame running back in his ear. That’s if the team doesn’t move Gore out along with other veterans.
In Gore, the Jets are fortunate to have his presence in the locker room.
