Frank Gore will be eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026. There is no doubt that the NFL's third-ranked all-time rushing leader (16,000 rushing yards) will get into Canton one day. Will it be in August of 2026, though?
That was the question presented by NFL Network this week. While Gore is a San Francisco 49ers legend and the running back will be inducted into the Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame during the 2022 season, is he a first-ballot inductee for the prestigious Pro Football Hall of Fame?
Frank Gore has 16,000 career rushing yards - third most in NFL history… Will he be a first-ballot Hall of Famer?⁰⁰
(via @NFLTotalAccess) pic.twitter.com/gVWls8TXFt
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) June 3, 2022
Gore certainly has his supporters. He played running back—an absolutely punishing position—for 16 NFL seasons. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in nine of his first 12 NFL seasons, is the 49ers' all-time leading rusher, a five-time Pro Bowl selection, and was named to the 2010s All-Decade Team. Gore's resume is impressive. Paired with his inspiring work ethic and ability to contribute to NFL teams for that long, it's hard to argue against the fan-favorite running back.
— Jay Moore (@JayMooreNFL) June 3, 2022
Without question. The people staying he padded his stats by playing past his prime stop. The longevity alone at that position is enough but to clearly be that productive to make it to top 3 all time? He is first ballot HOFer.
— Sam (@smhackah) June 3, 2022
He was one of the best consistently. He was the whole offense for years before and often during Kap. Clearly a bias Niners fan, but it's a no brainer.
— James B. (@jamesbalay) June 3, 2022
He has to be first ballot. 3 most yards all time. You don't have to put him in the top rbs of all time but he deserves to be first ballot. And he played the right way. Other players love him
— Rob Johnson (@Big_Rob1606) June 3, 2022
Yes. Without a doubt. Just a truck that kept trucking, never broke down.
— Jimmy Johnston (@JimmyJ2K) June 3, 2022
16K yards rushing and you absolutely have to. He's more than earned it.
— IamMichaelC (@MichaelCondelli) June 3, 2022
No doubt!!! FIRST BALLOT....put in serious work in his career....dominant back for a long time
— THE MASSESSMENT (@TheMassessment) June 3, 2022
Can't change the criteria now!! 3rd in history end of debate
— Rayshawn Coleman (@RayshawnColema2) June 3, 2022
Of course, not everyone is convinced 2026 will be Gore's year, with some arguing that his longevity shouldn't be a significant factor in determining when he is inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
God no. He was never elite. Playing numerous seasons past prime for pad numbers doesn't make you great. He was never era defining or a top RB.
— RANDALL (@TruthisTold2U) June 3, 2022
His stats are great because he played so long but has he ever been considered in the top 3-5 of his position in 4-5 years? If the answer is no, than it's no. I can't ever think he was the best 3-5 in two years. But Longevity should count some. But for me no. but not mad if in
— TheRealDonald (@McKnightDaddy) June 3, 2022
nah bot a 1st ballot but he deserves a chance. He was never a top back or a back the other team game planned around. He's a physical freak for staying healthy after so many hits.
— I didn't pull a Paul Pierce (@RealAndrewScott) June 3, 2022
When I think HOF, I think of guys that we're dominant at their position.
Always respected Frank Gore, but…
All due respect; was there a single year when Gore was considered a Top 3-4 RB in the league?
Was he EVER 1st Team All Pro?
Even once?
Not 1st Ballot credentials IMO.
— Double BB (@BBsBigHouse1) June 3, 2022
Nope. Hall of Very Good for sure, but Hall of Fame? I can't agree with that.
— Kristian Largent (@KG_Largent) June 3, 2022
What do you think about these arguments? Leave a comment below.
