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Come Fan with UsSaturday, June 20, 2026

Matt Forte, Bears Making Progress Before Franchise Tag Deadline

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Matt Forte and the Chicago Bears are still at odds over the running back’s contract, but they could come to an agreement on a deal before the franchise tag deadline. Forte has not signed his franchise tag tender because he wants a long-term deal, and the deadline to sign is on Monday. According to Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports, the two sides are making progress on a long-term contract.

League sources said there has been considerable progress between the Bears and Matt Forte ... There are still issues to hash out regarding the average per year on the deal over the first three years, and how it could compare to say Marshawn Lynch’s new deal, but there has been movement on what the deal might look like over five years.

Forte injured his knee just before the end of last season, which might have hurt him in long-term contract negotiations. The dispute between the two teams has been very public, with Forte regularly expressing his displeasure with the team, but he has also indicated that he does want to work out a deal and stay in Chicago.

For more on Forte and the Bears, head over to the SB Nation blog Windy City Gridiron and SB Nation Chicago.

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