Colts rumors: Indianapolis not expected to retain Frank Gore

Following the completion of his 13th year in the league, veteran running back Frank Gore still has a strong desire to continue his NFL career as he's set to hit the free agent market. This has put his future with the Indianapolis Colts into question.

Following the completion of his 13th year in the league, veteran running back Frank Gore still has the strong desire to continue his NFL career as he's set to hit the free agent market. This has put his future with the Indianapolis Colts into question, as he's spent the last three years with the franchise.

According to Mike Chappell of CBS4Indy.com, things appear to be leaning toward Gore having played his last game in a Colts uniform.

Gore has led the team in rushing in each of his three seasons, and remains a viable starter. He’s a leader in the locker room and on the playing field. He needs 76 yards to move past Curtis Martin and sit on the No. 4 rung in all-time rushing. One day he’ll undoubtedly have a bronze bust in Canton, Ohio. But he turns 35 in May. Gore intends on playing in 2018, but it’s hard to imagine him wanting to return to what is a rebuilding situation in Indy or the team putting its running game in the hands of a back who’s clearly on the downside of a decorated career.

Likely future: Thanks for the memories, Frank. Ideally, he’ll latch on with a contender, perhaps Miami.

Given that the franchise is rebuilding, coupled with the uncertainty surrounding quarterback Andrew Luck, Indianapolis isn't the ideal situation for Gore at this point in his career.

His focus may be on joining a team that can not only compete for a playoff spot, but has a legitimate shot at being considered as a Super Bowl contender.

Frank Gore — AJ Mast/The Associated Press

The 34-year-old has certainly shown that he still has plenty left in the tank, rushing for 961 yards in 2017, only 39 yards short his 10th career 1,000 rushing yard career. This included posting a season-high 130 yards on 36 carries against the Buffalo Bills, nearly carrying his team to a victory in the snow on his shoulders.

Gore's best days may be behind him, but he can be a valuable asset for another team looking for depth and additional dependable production out of the backfield. He should still garner much interest around the league once the free agency period commences next month.