Frank Gore might test free-agent market in March

Frank Gore, who said he was happy to be back with his teammates after ending a short holdout earlier this training camp, acknowledged Monday that he is indeed frustrated by the status of contract negotiations with the 49ers and could become a free agent in March.

Gore is entering the final year of his contract with the 49ers that will pay him $4.9 million this season.

It is believed Gore and his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, want a five-year, $43 million deal with $21 million guaranteed.

"If it doesn't happen, then I'm going to have to go out there and show everybody that I'm healthy and that I can be the Frank Gore I've always been," said Gore, a third-round draft pick by the 49ers in 2005. "If I have to test the market, that's what I'll have to do."

Gore said he plans to play out the season and become a free agent in March if no contract extension is reached. He said he wanted to finish his career with the 49ers but was prepared to move on if he doesn't get a deal he thinks is fair.

On Sunday, first-year 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh dismissed as "water-cooler talk" two national reports that said Gore was upset over stalled negotiations. One report called the situation volatile and said Gore could request a trade soon.

That did not appear to be Gore's intent. He spoke twice about playing out his contract, adding that he was "going to come to work and be here for my teammates and try to do the best for me."

Asked whether he would request a trade, he said he had no comment.

"That's up to the team and my agent," he said. "If they want to trade me, that's what it is."

Click here to order Frank Gore’s proCane Rookie Card.


(sacbee.com)