Oakland Raiders Free Agency Preview: Running Backs

Matt Forte

Entering his ninth season in the NFL, Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte is a proven veteran that is capable of providing both a presence in the locker room and substantial production within a tandem position with Murray.

In 2015, Forte carried the ball 218 times for 898 yards and four touchdowns, while he also accumulated 44 receptions for 389 yards and three touchdowns. He played in just 13 games due to an MCL sprain he suffered in November.

With Murray taking a bulk of the carries, Forte could easily be leaned on as a productive third-down back, for his ability to get open out of the backfield and make plays after the catch is among the best in the NFL. Having Murray carry the load would also keep Forte fresh, which in turn, could keep Forte healthy late in his career.

Forte, 30, still believes he has a lot left in the tank despite his age, but he is coming off a slightly underwhelming season. With a career-low 898 rushing yards in 2015, expect teams to overlook Forte in hopes of investing in their future at the running back position rather than a short-term fix.

Considering the idea that McKenzie also wants to invest in a younger back, Forte shouldn’t be recognized as an option unless the lack of interest from other teams significantly lowers his price. Bringing in Forte on a expensive, short-term contract would have a negative impact on the team’s development, for it would be more beneficial for the team to invest in a late-round project than to spend a great deal of money on a back late in his career like Forte.

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