Returning To Chicago A “Major Factor” For RB Matt Forte

Bears RB Matt Forte mentioned on Wednesday that returning to Chicago next year is a “major factor” him heading into an offseason where he’ll be an unrestricted free agent.

“I always look at staying home and being here where I’ve been the past eight years,” Forte said, per Adam Jahns. “That’s a major factor.”

Forte added that seeking the best contract in terms of total money isn’t his priority.

“At this point. I’m not worried about earning powers and all that stuff,” Forte said, per Jahns. “I’ve made money.”

Forte made it clear that he would like to be back with the Bears, but he’s realistic that it may not happen.

“Do I want to come back? Yes. That would be ideal for me, but that doesn’t always happen in this business,” Forte said, per Jahns.

Last we heard regarding Forte, he said that would like to remain in Chicago, but he’s prepared to “move on” if necessary.

Forte, 29, is in the final year of his four-year, $30.4 million contract that included $13.8 million guaranteed. He’ll make a base salary of $6.65 million before testing the open market next year.

This season, Forte has appeared in 11 games and ran for 768 yards on 190 carries (4 YPC) to go along with 38 receptions for 332 yards receiving and six total touchdowns for the Bears. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 29 running back out of 67 qualifying players.

We have Forte listed as the No. 22 free agent in our Top 25 – 2016 NFL Free Agents list.