While other running backs stacked up big money this offseason, Matt Forte patiently waited for his contract extension to get taken care of.
It looks like he’ll be waiting a while longer.
Bears G.M. Jerry Angelo told WBBM in Chicago that the Bears and Forte’s representatives have agreed to put off contract talks until after the season. There were recently reports that Forte was getting offered a deal with roughly $13-14 million guaranteed. Clearly, that wasn’t enough to close a deal.
It’s a risky move for both sides, but Forte takes the biggest risk. He could get hurt and he’s not exactly guaranteed a gigantic pay day if he gets to free agency. They Bears could also retain him with the franchise tag next year, although that number is very high for running backs.
We still wouldn’t be surprised to see a deal completed during the year anyway. Saying that talks have been cut off allows Forte and the organization to stop talking about the situation publicly.
It makes too much sense for both sides to get a deal finalized to take the Bears at their word.