Following the Bears’ announcement that they don’t play to re-sign Matt Forte this offseason, a number of teams were suggested as potential landings spots for the veteran running back.
But few spots make more sense than New England, where Bill Belichick always seems to get the best out of veteran players – and the Patriots coach is apparently very high on Forte.
Belichick heaped praise on the former Bears rushers following New England’s 51-23 win over Chicago during the 2014 seasons.
“He’s a threat every time he steps on to the field in a number of different ways: passing game, running game,” Belichick said, via NFL reporter Christopher Price. “Any time he gets the ball in his hands he’s a good solid player. He’s tough, great vision, great balance. He definitely has the ability to turn nothing into something in a hurry and he can turn something into a lot in a hurry too. Hard guy to tackle, does a good job of creating space for himself and finding openings, getting to places where there are fewer defenders and then taking advantage of it. But even when he’s boxed in or guys get a shot of him, he still makes yards. He’s a terrific player. Couldn’t say enough good things about him. He’s very good. He gets tough yards, gets yards in space. Catches short passes, runs downfield routes. He’s a very, very complete player.”
Forte rushed for 114 yards on 19 carries and added 54 yards and a touchdown through the air in the loss.
The Patriots aren’t known to be big spenders at the running back position, but may be in need of a lead back considering that LeGarrette Blount will be a free agent this offseason.
And the interest might be mutual, the former Bears back told the Sun-Times last week that he hopes to land somewhere with a proven quarterback – and a team that is a perennial winner can’t hurt either.
