Buffalo Bills: Free agency period improved offense at all three levels
3. Running back insurance
Signing a running back that will be 36 years old by the time the season starts and entering his 15th season in the NFL usually doesn’t happen, and if it does, it’s not seen as a smart move. But Frank Gore is not like most tailbacks, and proved last season, before missing the final two games with a sprained foot, in limited carries he can have a positive impact on an offense.
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The Buffalo Bills signed Frank Gore to a one-year, $2 million contract with the hopes of spelling LeSean McCoy, and providing a veteran backfield with Josh Allen. Gore started all 14 games he appeared in with the Miami Dolphins in 2018, but split time with young rushers Kenyan Drake and Kalen Ballage.
Gore’s per rushing attempt numbers were really good in 2018, with the future Hall of Famer averaging 4.6 yards per carry. He’s still solid in the passing game, whether it’s slipping out of the backfield and making positive plays (10.3 yards per reception) or providing a clean pocket in pass protection.
Gore is a step up over last year’s backup to Shady in Chris Ivory. Gore is stronger in pass pro and more nimble through the pocket, two staples that have made him on of the most durable running backs of all-time. Having this level of intellect and experience in an offensive meeting room will only help Allen and the rest of the offense.
As Shady continues to play through injuries as his career progresses, it’s nice to know that Frank Gore is more than capable of carrying the load until McCoy is at full strength. There’s a good chance the Bills take a running back later in the draft, especially with this much talent and depth in this class, and learning how to be a professional with Gore for one season is as good as it gets for a rookie.