Matt Forte Done In Chicago

Matt Forte will not return to the Bears. GM Ryan Pace informed the running back the team won't re-sign him.

— Chris Emma (@CEmma670) February 12, 2016

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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. My only regret is not being able to win a Lombardi trophy for the best fans in all of sports. I'm excited about the next chapter of my NFL career. But, Chicago will always be home. God Bless and Bear Down!

A photo posted by Matt Forte (@mforte22) on Feb 12, 2016 at 7:15am PST

Wow, this is a huge change in Chicago. Certainly a loss but it's way bigger than just that. It's big picture change because Matt Forte has BEEN the Chicago Bears since 2008. Yes, he's 30, but I am a little surprised his time has already done. I don't think his time as a player has come, but his time in the Windy City has. Such a great player and a model of consistency for a Bears team that's been all over the place in that timeframe. 8602 rushing yards, 45 rushing TDs, 487 receptions, and 4116 receiving yards. A fantastic all-purpose back and admired by many, too. I guess it's Jeremy Langford's turn to take over now? Wow. That happened fast. Whoever picks up Matt Forte next will be LUCKY to have him. Pretty sad for the Bears but hopefully ends up happy for Matt Forte. Huge offseason so far for Green Bay, as two of the best non-Packer players in the division are now gone. First Calvin Johnson, now Matt Forte. Bummer day for the Bears and Bear fans everywhere. Very different meaning of "Bear Down."