With recent comments made by Pablo Sandoval, including his early on-set of dementia regarding former teammates, hearing a player praise his former team is a breathe of fresh air. Since their respective departures from the San Francisco 49ers, both Frank Gore and Patrick Willis have had good things to say about their time wearing the red and gold.
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During their time in the Bay, running back Gore and linebacker Willis were the heart and soul of their side of the ball. Gore spent 10 years with San Francisco, and was a Pro Bowler five times. He ended his time there as the franchise’s career leader in rushing yards (11,073), attempts (2,442), and touchdowns (64). He also sits 20th all-time in yards, 25th in attempts, and 42nd in touchdowns.
Gore was initially reported to be headed to the Philadelphia Eagles, but he reneged on that potential deal, and instead chose to move on to the Indianapolis Colts instead. In a post on his Instagram account, Gore thanked everyone from ownership to the 49ers fans who cheered him on every time he carried the ball.
"I want to take this time to thank the York family. You gave me the opportunity to play the game I have loved since childhood. You are truly world class. Thank you to the entire 49er organization for all the support you have given me through the years. Most importantly I want to thank all my fans truly the best fans in the world. I will miss you but will always carry you close to my heart."
Willis spent eight seasons with the 49ers, and was a seven-time Pro Bowler, five-time first-team All Pro, and Defensive Rookie of the Year in his career. He totaled up 20.5 sacks, eight interceptions, 16 forced fumbles and 950 tackles (according to pro-football-reference.com). He’s considered one of the best players at his position in decades.
He’s struggled with foot injuries over the past couple years, and a toe injury cost him 10 games in 2014. He announced his retirement this offseason, shocking many who felt that Willis still had plenty of good football left in him, but indicated that he wanted to walk away from the game while he was still able to walk.
In his speech, Willis had nothing but good things to say, not only about his career, but the only team he knew as well.
"Here I am today, standing before you guys, not as a perfect man, but as an honest man saying that I feel like I have no regrets…I feel like there would not have been a day in my career that I don’t feel that I gave this game my everything.[/pullquote]blockquoteI’ve had the most amazing eight years of my life being a part of this historic organization. I would like to thank Jed York and the York family for the amazing opportunity…I thank you all for everything. I thank you all for just welcoming me in. I’ve been so humbled to have played this game."
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Willis was visibly emotional during his speech, having to break off at a few points just to compose himself. He poured his entire self out every single time he took the field, and he took the same approach when he stepped to the podium. He let his entire heart out, and there should be nothing but respect for that.
Replacing the roster spot is easy. The team has already drafted a running back in Carlos Hyde, and a linebacker in Chris Borland that could take their place. But replacing what each of those players bring to the table will not be nearly as easy. Both players gave 100 percent at every turn, and their knowledge and leadership will be sorely missed.