Matt Forte, Bears Agree to Long-Term Deal, Which We Discovered in the Most Modern Way Possible

By: The Football Girl | Posted: July 16, 2012

Today is the last day to sign any player with a franchise tag to a long-term deal. Players yet to sign their tenders include Lions DE Cliff Avril, Chiefs WR Dwayne Bowe, and Ravens RB Ray Rice. Until a few minutes ago the list also included Matt Forte of the Bears.  The Bears finally paid Forte, to the tune of a four-year deal reportedly valued at about $8 million a season. The final, confirmed numbers are not yet avalable.

Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times is credited with breaking the story.  But I have to give the honors to Forte’s teammate Israel Idonije (most recognizable from the Bears’ NFL/Play 60 spot) who tweeted out congrats to Forte five minutes ahead of any reporter coming in on the story. Idonije’s tweet was in turn retweeted by ESPN Chicago’s Sarah Spain.

Isn’t the future grand?

But of course the deal, which the two sides had been working on since last summer, is the headline here. Chicago uncharacteristically ponied up for Forte in a deal that seems fair considering the level and multi-faceted nature of Forte's game. 

Now all eyes turn to Baltimore and Ray Rice’s agent, who can further pinpoint Rice's value.   

Does $8 million a season seem like a good deal for Forte? Should running backs come at a higher price point than their current value considering the abuse their bodies take versus other skill positions? 

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Mike
Posts: 1

Re: Matt Forte, Bears Agree to Long-Term Deal, Which We Discovered in the Most Modern Way Possible
Reply #1 on : Mon July 16, 2012, 12:31:33

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Only $8M per for a guy who has carried the load since he has been in Chicago. Sad.