Since joining the Chicago Bears, Matt Forte's role on the team has never been questioned. He has been the workhorse running back, stabilizing the offense. Even as he approaches 30, Forte has been one of the most consistent running backs in the league which the Bears have benefitted from. However, as Forte enters the final year of his contract, suddenly his place on the depth chart is being questioned.
According to NFL.com, Forte could be seeing a drop in production in 2015 as offensive coordinator Adam Gase favors a running back committee rather than one main work horse. He believes this helps keep players fresh and healthy for longer during the season. Gase made it clear that he has full confidence in Forte's ability to be a workhorse, but he sees more results when other players are involved.
"Well this is an unusual situation just because Matt has been in such great shape and has been so dynamic as far as staying on the field," said Gase, via ESPN.com. "We've just got to see how it plays out. In Denver, C.J. would hate me for saying this, but he got tired and was a little chubby sometimes. I mean, he got worn down quick and then we had to rotate backs in last year. Matt's an unusual situation in that position because he's able to play every play, or has. It's a positive that he's had a number of carries and the production he's had, both catching the ball and running the ball. We've always been believers in kind of a one-two punch and rolling guys through there whether it's the defensive line; a wave of those guys to stay fresh."
It is likely that Bears fans do not even know the other running backs on the roster considering it is always Forte on the field. Ka'Deem Carey was used last year in the backup role and had just 36 carries. Jacquizz Rodgers was signed in the offseason from the Atlanta Falcons. He is a little more versatile, excelling in passing situations. The Bears also drafted Jeremy Langford in the fourth round, but he is not expected to be the primary load carrier.
According to the Chicago Tribune, any thought of Forte being traded can be thrown out the window. The Bears need Forte more this season and the trade market for the back is not strong after the draft. Forte is not expected to ink a new contract despite his hold out to get one, but the Bears might not find much interest in the back, especially if Adrian Peterson is offered.
However, WindyCityGridiron.com makes the case that the Bears should at least try and offer up Forte to the Dallas Cowboys to see if they are interested. Jerry Jones told Fox Sports Southwest that he would be willing to offer up his 2016 first-round pick for a game-changing running back. While everyone associated that with Peterson, Forte could easily fit the bill as well. Getting a running back on an expiring contract might not be what Dallas wants considering the veteran is looking for stability in his next deal. As long as Forte keeps holding out and Jones keeps hinting at trade deals, anything is an option.
