Cross Off Colts: Frank Gore Reportedly Signing with Eagles
According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore may soon be safely crossed off the list of potential running back options for the Indianapolis Colts. While Gore was rumored earlier “to be a shoe-in” to the Colts, he’s expected to sign with the Philadelphia Eagles on a 3-year deal, in which $7.5 million of the first two years are fully guaranteed:
Barring a breakdown in talks, Frank Gore expected to sign 3-year deal in which $7.5 million in first two years are guaranteed.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 8, 2015
Free-agent RB Frank Gore has told people he will sign this week with the Philadelphia Eagles, league sources told me and @caplannfl.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 8, 2015
Fresh off the LeSean McCoy trade, it’s still a steep price for the Eagles considering Gore is set to turn 32 years old. However, Gore has proven to be one of the most highly productive and durable running backs in his 10-year NFL career. Last season, he rushed for 1,106 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns. Gore’s only missed 1 start for the 49ers in the past 4 seasons and has rushed for over 1,000 rushing yards in 8 of his 10 seasons in the NFL.
For the Colts, their free agent running back options are now dwindling. Earlier today, Mike Wells of ESPN reported that the Colts have no interest in Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray:
Colts currently not interested in DeMarco Murray http://t.co/cd0zvWM6VR
— Mike Wells (@MikeWellsNFL) March 8, 2015
It essentially leaves Adrian Peterson, who’s situation is cloudy with the Minnesota Vikings, and Baltimore Ravens running back Justin Forsett as the only potential remaining proven veteran free agent running back options. While Peterson is one of the best running backs in the business and the Colts are considered “a strong suitor“, he carries some off-the-field baggage with him and will be paid a premium. On the other hand, Forsett is coming off a career season with Baltimore in Gary Kubiak‘s running back friendly offensive system, and already 29 years old, may not experience the same type of success elsewhere.
Right now, it looks as though the Colts best chance at running back may be through early in this year’s NFL Draft. The team shouldn’t invest a 1st round pick in the position, but a highly regarded running back taken in either Round 2 or 3 would be ideal in what’s looking like a loaded class of rookie running backs.
Sep 28, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore (21) rushes for few yards in the red zone against the Philadelphia Eagles during the third quarter at Levi Stadium.