NFL News: Matt Forte, Chicago Bears To Part Ways After Eight Seasons

There have been a number of excellent running backs in the NFL recently, but very few have been as consistent as Matt Forte.

Forte has missed only eight games in his career so far and has rushed for more than 1,000 yards five times while doubling as the one of the league’s best pass-catching backs.

Forte has been synonymous with the Chicago Bears and has played all eight of his seasons with them, but as he announced on his Instagram Page, Forte and the Bears will be separating this off-season:

Despite my wishes, my days as a member of the Chicago Bears have sadly come to an end. I was informed earlier this week from the GM that they will not be attempting to re-sign me in free agency. I will remain forever grateful for my time spent in Chicago and being able to play for an organization with such a rich history.

The news in itself isn’t too surprising as most around the league assumed Forte would be gone from Chicago after this season.

Unfortunately for Forte he has reached the dreaded 30 year old mark where many running backs begin to fall off. It also didn’t help that Forte posted a career low in yards (rushing and receiving) as he began to split carries with Jeremy Langford.

Nonetheless, Forte will still be one of the biggest names on the free agent market, especially at his position. His ability to catch the ball will still make him a wanted commodity and many will be watching to see where he winds up.