The running back position has been a point of focus for the Chicago Bears this offseason. While the team opted to trade away one of their top wide receivers in Brandon Marshall, there have been several lingering rumorsregarding Matt Forte's future considering he is entering the final year of his contract. With a new general manager and head coach, anything is possible for veteran players and the Bears appear to be preparing for the possibility that Forte is not around in 2015.
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Forte could be trade bait this offseason heading into the 2015 NFL Draft. Forte is entering the final year of his contract and showing no signs of slowing down. However, the Bears are entering a rebuilding year and would ideally like draft picks and cap space meaning Forte could be gone especially if the Bears do not intend to re-sign him next offseason. Forte admitted on Twitter he has heard the talk and stressed his desire to stay put saying, "A lot of football left in me. I want to play them for the Chicago Bears and retire a lifelong Bear. But they have to want the same thing."
The Bears are showing signs at finding a running back to either compliment Forte or replace him for the future. According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the Bears are bringing in free agent Jacquizz Rodgers for a workout after the Atlanta Falcons opted not to re-sign him. Clearly Rodgers is not a replacement for Forte, but merely a complimentary back. Rodgers is a dynamic back that can excel in both the pass game and as a backup rusher.
If the Bears miss out on Rodgers, they could aim to get someone like Knowshon Moreno who has the abilities to replace Forte should a deal be made or simply be a complimentary player who is active in the passing game while the veteran is more of a power rusher. Pierre Thomas and Stevan Ridley are also available. Chicago will also look to the draft for options. Several teams are eyeing Todd Gurley, TJ Yeldon and Melvin Gordon. If Chicago thought they could get a trade for Forte, they could easily grab one of those rushers in the second or third round of the draft.