Frank Gore is already climbing the all-time rushing list, but he has a couple more milestones in his sights ahead of the 2020 season.
Gore will surpass Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith for most regular-season games played by a running back when he first steps on the field for the New York Jets.
The 37-year-old will also become just the second running back to play at least 16 years in the NFL, joining Marcus Allen.
This is elite company for Gore, and it also speaks to his impressive longevity. Smith played 15 years in the NFL, but he retired after his age-35 season and arguably could have been done well before then due to injuries.
Durability issues also plagued Allen's career, though he was still one of the best dual threats of his era, tallying over 1,000 yards from scrimmage in 1996 in his age-36 season.
Meanwhile, Gore continues to chug along as one of the most reliable vets in football. His days as a feature back are over, but Gore can still grind out tough yards and provide leadership in the backfield.
The five-time Pro Bowler spent the 2019 season with the Buffalo Bills, appearing in all 16 games and rushing for close to 600 yards on 3.6 yards per carry.
It should not have come as much of a surprise the Jets signed Gore earlier this week. Gore started in 14 games for the Miami Dolphins in 2018, when he was coached by Adam Gase.
Gase said last week he wanted to “lessen the load” for starting running back Le'Veon Bell, and the Jets are doing just that by signing Gore, who will continue making history in 2020.
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