Chicago Bears head coach Lovie Smith not concerned over RB Matt Forte's contract saga - NFL News
Chicago Bears running back, Matt Forte, is severely displeased with his contract situation and with the Bears signing of another running back in Michael Bush his frustration has increased.
However, Bears head coach, Lovie Smith, is not overly concerned with Forte’s situation and remains confident that the two sides can reach a deal before the July 16th deadline.
The Bears tagged their Pro-Bowl running back to keep him from entering free agency and are looking to negotiate a new deal soon.
On Monday, CEO and President Ted Phillips revealed to the media that another “stronger” offer has been tabled to Forte and he is hopeful that the running back would sign up.
Speaking at the National Football League (NFL) annual meeting Smith said that he is confident that the two sides can come to an understanding soon.
"I think we have a grown man who can make decisions on how they want to handle situations,"
Adding further he said that.
"Matt has been here a long time. He doesn't feel good about his contract situation. He voiced that. I don't make too big a deal about it. I've been in Chicago a long time. I've seen a lot of contract situations. In the end if you know the person, normally
you come to a good understanding at the end. That's what we'll do."
Forte has been unhappy with his situation since the end of the 2011-12 season as contract negotiations show no signs of ending.
The running back has also threatened of holding out if his situation is not resolved and believes that Chicago is not giving him an offer that he deserves after brilliant performances in the last season.
The 26-year-old rushed for 997-yards last season from 203 attempts and scored three touchdowns which saw him handed his first Pro-Bowl appearance.
Injury after week 13 counted Forte out for the rest of the season as Chicago failed to qualify for the playoffs with an 8-8 record and going on a five-game losing streak.
Smith though wants to see Forte back for the new season and perform even better as the Bears look to get back into the playoffs.
“This time of year, as much as anything, is about exciting things that (are) happening. We're about trying to get Matt better."
More developments are expected on Forte’s contract situation as negotiations continue.
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