SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Frank Gore is embracing change and competition at age 29.
The three-time Pro Bowl running back is taking part in the San Francisco 49ers’ offseason workouts, arriving earlier than usual in the Bay Area this spring from his offseason home in Miami.
While Gore is determined to do his part to duplicate San Francisco’s special comeback season of 2011, he has other motivation, too: The defending NFC West champions already have a busy backfield, and Gore will get a daily push from backup Kendall Hunter, newly signed Brandon Jacobs and rookie second-round pick LaMichael James.
Gore has long prided himself on being a durable, every-down back who can carry the load for the Niners year after year. Yet coach Jim Harbaugh knows Gore will need his share of breaks.