Chicago Bears RB Matt Forte likely to hold out from OTAs - NFL News
The contract saga involving the Chicago Bears and running back, Matt Forte continues with no end in sight as both parties continue to work out a new long term deal.
Forte who received a franchise tag by the Bears keeping him from entering free agency looks likely to hold out from the team’s voluntary workout program before the official start of training camp.
The running back has yet to sign his franchise tender and is frustrated by the lack of movement on a new multi-year extension to his deal which expired after the 2011-12 season.
Chicago had offered him multiple deals but disagreements over money continue to stall the signing of a new deal.
The running back was angered further by the Bears signing of running back, Michael Bush in free agency which Forte took as a sign of disrespect since his own contract talks remain stalled.
However, new offensive coordinator, Mike Tice is not too worried over Forte holding out from the workouts and believes that the running game will not be affected in any way even without the running back’s participation.
Speaking to the Chicago Tribune in an earlier interview, Tice said.
“There will be no need to change the running game at all,”
The workouts are important with coaches preparing players for game plans that will be followed in the new season.
The running back lashed out angrily over the Bears signing of Bush in free agency and launched his rant on Twitter over the signing.
“There's only so many times a man that has done everything he's been asked to do can be disrespected! Guess the GOOD GUYS do finish last....”
Head coach, Lovie Smith in multiple interviews had said that he is not too concerned with the impasse and that both parties will come to an agreement eventually.
The Bears are looking to get back into the playoffs in the new season as they continue to strengthen the offensive roster which quickly regressed last year after season ending injuries to both Forte and quarterback, Jay Cutler.
With a revamped strategy and astute signings in free agency the Bears are looking to make sure that such a situation does not arise once again in the new season.
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