Ranking the Buffalo Bills deep group of running backs

BUFFALO, NY - OCTOBER 07: Running back LeSean McCoy #25 of the Buffalo Bills runs with the ball against the Tennessee Titans in the fourth quarter at New Era Field on October 7, 2018 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
BUFFALO, NY - OCTOBER 07: Running back LeSean McCoy #25 of the Buffalo Bills runs with the ball against the Tennessee Titans in the fourth quarter at New Era Field on October 7, 2018 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /
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MIAMI, FL – DECEMBER 09: Frank Gore #21 of the Miami Dolphins rushes during the second half against the New England Patriots at Hard Rock Stadium on December 9, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FL – DECEMBER 09: Frank Gore #21 of the Miami Dolphins rushes during the second half against the New England Patriots at Hard Rock Stadium on December 9, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

2. Frank Gore

Frank Gore is a rare breed at running back. At 36 years old, many figured Gore to be out of the league by now. But he’s still treading along the path and doing a pretty good job at it. In 2018, as a Dolphin, he moved up the ranks to become the NFL’s fourth all-time career rushing yards (14,788) — just another addition a Hall of Fame-worthy resume.

In Gore’s last four seasons, he’s averaged nearly 235 rushes, 919 yards, and a little over three touchdowns a season. He’s proved, that despite his age, he can still handle a high workload. Luckily, in his 15th season in Buffalo, he won’t be depended upon heavily. Instead, he figures to be the consistent, veteran backup they’ve desperately needed for some time now.

But, if Buffalo needs Gore to start, he can certainly do that. Though he’s not playing at the level he used to, his game, revolving around instincts, vision, and power, is still useful. So much so that Pro Football Focus gave his 2018 season an 81.4 grade — good for 11th in the league amongst running backs.

Of course, there is always a risk of signing a running back of Gore’s age. That risk tends to be lined with a higher probability of injury, regression, and a lost step. But, if his lone season in Miami taught us anything, he certainly has some gas left in the tank.

Though Gore’s one-year contract with the Bills may be his last, he can leave a lasting impression on the team. He’s earned praise for his leadership and ability to work with younger backs. His selflessness, consistency, and ageless game should be noted and remembered by every back on the team, including the next one.