Frank Gore officially marked the end of an era with the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday, as he signed a one-day contract to retire with the team. Gore will also be the 31st inductee into the Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame, which features the likes of Joe Montana and Jerry Rice.
Gore’s future in the NFL had been up in the air following his departure from the New York Jets after the 2020 season. He did not sign with a team ahead of the 2021 regular season. While there was much speculation that he would opt to call it a career during the campaign, he did note in December of his interest in joining a Super Bowl contender.
Still, Gore ended up shutting down talk of a possible return to the NFL in April, as he mentioned that he was working with the 49ers to put pen to paper on a one-day contract. Now, the two sides have finally announced that the power running back has called it a career as a 49er.
On Thursday, Gore penned a farewell statement to the NFL, where he also offered his appreciation to the 49ers after having spent a total of 10 seasons with the team.
“One of the very first things I told the 49ers organization when they drafted me in 2005 was that they got the right guy,” Gore said. “I knew early on that I wouldn't let my college career define me in regards to injuries, and that I would have to outwork a lot of people to get to where I wanted to be. After 10 years in San Francisco and 16 years in the NFL, I can confidently say that I put all I had into the game of football. Football was and is everything to me. … I am happy to officially close this chapter of my life and proud of what I was able to accomplish and the legacy I leave behind.
“I want to thank my entire family who was with me the entire way. I would also like to thank Denise and Dr. York, Jed York, and each coach I was fortunate enough to play for. To my teammates, the ones I sweat and strained with every game, thank you for continuing to push me to want more and not settle for the status quo. Being inducted into the 49ers Hall of Fame, one of the most historic franchises in all of sports, is something that is hard to put into words. This organization will always be a part of me, one that I will forever associate myself with.”
Next up for Gore may likely be an induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His career resume sure speaks for itself, as he finished off his run in the NFL with 19,985 yards from scrimmage and 99 total touchdowns.
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