Matt Forte: A Franchised Running Back
By this point, you all know the story. Matt Forte is the workhorse of the Chicago Bears. He does everything they ask him to do. He runs, he catches, he blocks. In return he seeks a multi-year contract but it’s pretty clear the Bears have no interest in that scenario. I’ve thought for a while that the Bears plan to franchise Forte next year but until now I didn’t have proof.
First let’s explore why the Bears (probably) won’t give Forte a multi-year contract. It can actually be summed up in one word: risk. Running backs take a pounding in the NFL. Their average career lasts less than three years. Forte is now in his fourth full season so a multi-year contract would wrap him up through his seventh or eighth. To assume he will be productive (numbers similar to the top 5 RB’s) and stay healthy during that time frame just isn’t realistic and that’s the position Bears management has chosen to take. This led them to offer Forte a contract with less guaranteed money than he feels he’s worth.
The Bears currently have about $18 million in salary cap room. They have 16 players coming out of contract at the end of this season and 13 coming out at the end of next season. When asked “Does the team plan to work on contracts for other players?” Jerry Angelo responded, “We do. It’s part of the plan for the money.” In the past the Bears’ front office has worked proactively to extend players a year out from their contracts end. But Forte didn’t get this treatment. He’s within two months of the end of his contract and negotiations are still being labeled ‘a matter to be discussed during the off season’.
That’s all the proof I need to see that Forte will be hit with the franchise tag next year. The Bears made their offer, Forte didn’t like it, so next year he’ll be franchised. It’s great news for fans because he’ll be a Chicago Bear and will help them win games. But it’s too bad Jerry Angelo and other members of upper management couldn’t put a decent offer together for him. I’d say he has earned it.
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Tags: Jerry Angelo, Matt Forte
November 22nd, 2011 at 3:16 pm
just stumbled upon this site…did you know that the Bears employ a system called PSL where you lease the actual seat which then gives you the ability to purchase season tickets each year? The PSL is sold via the PSL marketplace on the Bears website. You can get some awesome seats for close to original prices.
November 22nd, 2011 at 5:03 pm
Definitely aware of the PSL situation Joe. A lot more upfront costs is you go that route.