Matt Forte is set to hit the market after the Chicago Bears told the running back that they will not be looking to re-sign him in free agency. Forte could be a target for numerous teams, including the Dallas Cowboys, New England Patriots, Green Bay Packers, Miami Dolphins, Houston Texans and Seahawks this offseason.
Forte is past his prime at the age of 30, but he is still a productive player and that should get him some attention on the open market. Forte said last month that he is looking to join a contender and that money will not be his main concern in free agency. Forte has only been to the playoffs once in his career and he would like the chance to compete for a Super Bowl. Field Yates at ESPN spoke with some NFL Nation writers about potential fits for Forte and some options may include the Packers, Dolphins, Cowboys and Patriots for next season.
Yates writes that the New England Patriots are a solid option when it comes to "thinking strictly from a system fit," as he is one of the top pass-catching running backs of all-time. The Patriots likely have a need at the position after Dion Lewis and LeGarrette Blount dealt with injuries last season and there is a chance that Blount may not return in free agency. Mike Reiss at ESPN Boston wrote last week that Forte could be a "perfect fit" for the Patriots offense based on his skills.
Forte has put up over 200 catches in the last three seasons combined and in 2014 he set a record for running backs with 102 receptions. Yates calls the Patriots and Forte a "sensible marriage" and that they would be one of the best fits for the running back next season. Rob Demovsky covers the Packers and writes that Forte could be an option with James Starks hitting free agency. The team may not bring back Starks and with Eddie Lacy coming off of a disappointing season, Forte could find a "good landing spot" in Green Bay.
James Walker writes that the Dolphins are a "natural fit" for Forte, as his former offensive coordinator Adam Gase is now head coach with the team. Lamar Miller may leave in free agency and that could open up an opportunity for Forte to step in. The Dallas Cowboys have been mentioned in connection with Forte and Todd Archer writes that at the "right price," Forte could slot in alongside Darren McFadden at the RB position. The Redskins, Jets and Broncos all have RBs hitting free agency and could consider Forte as a replacement option.
