The NFL trade deadline is approaching and several big names and swirling around the rumor mill as many wonder if this year the deadline could have much more activity than in years past. With several teams looking like they will not be climbing out of the low ranks in the league, they could opt to ship out big contracts in favor of draft picks to rebuild. The Chicago Bears are walking the edge of that decision as Matt Forte's name sits at the top of the trade circuit.
The Chicago Bears continue to get rid of aging players. Since general manager Ryan Pace took over the franchise, the team has traded away older players like Brandon Marshall and Jared Allen and they also have released Jeremiah Ratliff. Regardless of Pro Bowl appearances, Pace is purging the roster and it might not stop any time soon. Forte's name continues to be brought up in trade talk and it will not quiet down until the deadline has passed.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com, the Bears are willing to deal away Forte, but the trade is not expected to happen. According to Rapoport, the Bears are open to gaining draft picks to help rebuild with the new regime in place and if a team is willing to take on the $6.65 million owed to Forte this year then the team could make the deal. However, right now no one is jumping at the opportunity. The Bears have made no indication that they will be re-signing Forte in the offseason, so trying to trade him now in hopes of getting something in return is not bad idea. Forte has followed that up by denying the idea he was heading anywhere in the middle of the season.
There are teams in need of running back help. Forte of course would be the best option for a contending team or even a team that wants a top running back that could try and retain for the future. The Dallas Cowboys are the first team that pops up considering their three-headed attack of Darren McFadden, Joseph Randle and Christine Michael is not helping win games. When both Dez Bryant and Tony Romo return, having Forte in the backfield could get Dallas the make-up wins needed to regain speed in the NFC East. A mid-to-late round draft pick might be all it takes to get Forte.
The Houston Texans have likely lost Arian Foster for the season with a torn Achilles. They could try and make a play for Forte, although right now the team is not a threat to make the playoffs and the team might not think it is worth it to give up the draft pick. Forte has been much more durable than Foster in his career, so the 29 years of age should not scare the team away.
The Cleveland Browns could be an option to help Duke Johnson and Isaiah Crowell. The Miami Dolphins could look for help for Lamar Miller who has been inconsistent this season. The Washington Redskins are getting nothing out of Alfred Morris and Matt Jones. The chances anyone makes the move for Forte appears to be unlikely. However, if the phone rings the Bears are expected to answer and at least listen to deals.