The Chicago Bears are likely bringing back Alshon Jeffery in free agency, but Matt Forte could end up elsewhere this offseason after a productive career with the team.
Forte has been one of the best running backs in football during his career, but a number of factors could keep him from returning to Chicago. Forte is getting past the age of 30 and with Jeremy Langford looking strong as a rookie last season, the Bears may not be willing to meet the price that Forte wants on a new contract. The Beard did not engage in contract talks with Forte during the season and that likely means he will be on his way out of Chicago.
According to Jeff Dickerson at ESPN Chicago, the chances of Forte returning to the team are "slight" as things stand now. There is always a chance the two sides agree on a short-term deal at a low price if the market doesn't develop, but Forte is expected to be targeted by other teams on the market. Forte is a dual threat out of the backfield and could be a strong fit for a number of teams, including the Cowboys, Raiders, Dolphins and Giants. Forte had 898 rushing yards and 44 receptions last season and he could be a great option as a number two back for certain teams.
Jeffery is more likely to return than Forte, as the receiver is just 25 and has shown that he has elite talent at the position. Jeffery dealt with injury issues this season and had 54 catches in nine games and if the team can't work out a new contract, there is chance the Bears use the franchise tag on Jeffery. Brad Biggs at the Chicago Tribune writes that he would be "very surprised" if Jeffery did not return to the Bears next season. Jeffery combined for 17 TD catches over the previous two seasons and last year he averaged nearly 90 yards in the nine games that he played.
The Chicago Bears pick at number 11 in the draft and the team has a number of positions they could target with the selection. The Chicago Tribune writes that there is a chance that the team looks at a quarterback, as players like Connor Cook, Carson Wentz and Paxton Lynch could be available. The team has been happy with Jay Cutler, but the Bears could also consider taking a QB to develop for the future.
The Bears have a need at linebacker and some mock drafts that have come out have the team looking at players like Myles Jack, Shaq Lawson and Reggie Ragland. All three players are expected to be top 15 picks and if they are on the board when the Bears come up, there is good chance Chicago targets them as options to lineup with Pernell McPhee on defense.