The Chicago Bears signed second-round draft pick Matt Forte to a four-year deal. Forte, a running back, looks to fill the shoes of released back Cedric Benson. Benson, who played for three years with the Bears, was released in June after being arrested a second time on alcohol related charges.
Forte, who played for Tulane University, set school records for most rushing touchdowns (39), most touchdowns overall (44) and most yards rushing per game (99.2). He was second in total yards rushing (4,465) and overall yards gained (5,261). On the depth chart for Chicago, he is presently the starter. That could change if the Bears sign a veteran running back.
The Bears have recently signed a rash of players, including rookie defensive tackle Marcus Harrison to a four-year contract. They also contracted wide receiver Earl Bennett and cornerback Zack Brown to four-year deals.
In June, Chicago made veteran defensive tackle Tommie Harris the highest-paid NFL player at that position. In four seasons, Harris, who is six-foot-three and 295 pounds, has played in 60 of 64 possible regular season NFL games. He’s totaled 19.5 sacks, making eight last season, and forced five fumbles, including two in 2007.
Thus far the Bears have signed 11 of 12 draft picks, including safety Craig Steltz, tight end Kellen Davis, defensive end Ervin Baldwin, right tackle Chester Adams, linebacker Joey LaRocque, offensive tackle Kirk Barton and wideout Marcus Monk.
However all is not rosy with the Bears. Linebacker Brian Urlacher, the leader of Chicago’s tough defense, is unhappy with his contract and wants to renegotiate it. The team has been unwilling to do so.
First-round pick offensive lineman Chris Williams is the only 2008 NFL Draft pick not signed. Williams, who is six-foot-six and 320 pounds, played his college ball for the Vanderbilt Commodores.
