After signing with the team last week, new 49ers running back Tim Hightower was issued jersey No. 21, the former number of the franchise’s all-time leading rusher, Frank Gore.
Hightower, however, isn’t interested in wearing it.
The six-year veteran took to Instagram on Monday morning and posted a photo of himself standing behind his new locker labeled “21 Hightower.” Hightower wrote that “the time is now,” while also including the hashtags “#numbertheygaveme” “#willbechanged” “#legend” “#numbershouldberetired,” and offered a message of respect to Gore.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BStTN2Ghqpa/
Hightower wore No. 34 last season with the Saints and during his tenure with the Cardinals from 2008-1010. He also wore No. 25 and No. 39 with the Redskins. No. 34 was worn by 49ers’ Hall-of-Fame running back Joe Perry and is retired, while Jimmy Ward currently wears No. 25. No. 39 currently remains unissued.
In six years with Arizona, Washington and New Orleans, Hightower rushed for 2,977 yards with a 4.0 average per carry and has 162 receptions for 1,208 yards. He had 133 carries for 548 yards last season with four touchdowns and 22 catches for 200 yards and a score. He is expected to be the primary backup to Carlos Hyde next season.
