The Bears’ Wednesday signing of running back Michael Bush was at first perceived as a sort of insurance policy for unsigned franchise player Matt Forte. Bush could be Forte’s backup, giving Chicago a starting-capable runner in the event of another Forte injury, and also provide the Bears with some negotiating leverage in long-term contract talks with Forte.
But perhaps there’s more to it. Perhaps the Bears don’t want to sign Forte long term, at all.
Forte certainly isn’t happy, and he let his feelings be known on Twitter Thursday afternoon.
“There’s only so many times a man that has done everything he’s been asked to do can be disrespected!” Forte tweeted. “Guess the GOOD GUYs do finish last.”
Forte has played hard for the Bears, handling heavy workloads and playing through a knee injury in 2009. But he hasn’t exactly played the role of good soldier. He’s gone on ESPN repeatedly to voice his frustration about his contract demands, which the Bears have offered a guaranteed salary of $7.778 million to satisfy.
But Forte wants much, much more, and he’s gone out of his way time and time again to let it be known.
Forte’s agent even chimed in on Thursday.
“To sign yet another running back, prior to completing a contract with Matt, suggests disregard for Matt and his contributions to the Bears,” said Forte’s agent, per ESPN Chicago’s Mike Wright.